Thieves are known to operate in crowded areas, at cash machines, in car parks, and around bus/train stations, especially during rush hour. To protect your valuables:

• Do not keep all your valuables in one place
• Do not leave your bags unattended anywhere. As well as attracting pickpockets, you could also create a security alert
• Keep your bags where you can see them in restaurants, bars or theatres. Do not put your bag on the floor or over the back of your chair
• Wear your bag in front of you, not over your shoulder, in crowded areas such as on a bus or train
• Do not be distracted by your surroundings. Be aware that criminals may try to divert your attention

• Avoid isolated places, especially at night
• Be aware of your surroundings. If you’re listening to music through headphones, make sure you can still hear what’s happening around you. It’s also good to avoid walking while staring at your phone. This is especially important if you’re walking alone or in the dark
• Stick to well-lit and overlooked routes, wherever possible
• Try to travel in groups of two or more people. If you are going out alone, tell someone where you're going and what time you expect to be back
• Don't forget your house key
• Mobile phones, laptop computers and small electronics are attractive to opportunist criminals. Be careful about where you take them and how you use them
• Never get into a taxi on the street unless it is a licensed Hackney Carriage, also called a ‘black cab’. Only use a private-hire cab/Uber that you have booked by phone
• Don't accept lifts from strangers
• Trust your ‘gut feeling’ and avoid people and situations that make you feel uneasy

Have a look at the following personal safety apps:

• Hollie Guard
• Walksafe
• bSafe

Socialising with friends is a key part of the university experience for many students. No matter if you’re going out or heading to a friend’s flat for the evening, here are a few ways to ensure you have a great time from start to finish:

• Have a plan for getting home, including if your phone runs out of charge
• If possible, go out and return home in a group, especially when walking in poorly lit areas
• Be “drink aware” by knowing the signs of drink spiking and never leaving your drinks unattended
• Ask for Angela if you feel unsafe at any time. Many bars, pubs and clubs around the city now offer this service, including on campus; look out for posters in the venue
• Avoid walking home alone in secluded areas – it’s safer to get a taxi. If you do choose to walk and begin feeling uneasy, call a friend.
• If you drink alcohol, keep track of your units and alternate your alcoholic drinks with water - see DrinkAware for more guidance
• Be part of a WhatsApp group with friends so you can communicate your location throughout the evening, just in case you become separated

While the University does not condone the misuse of alcohol or illegal drugs, we’re here to support you if you think you or a friend might have a problem with either of these things.

Bikes can be targeted by opportunist thieves because they can be easy to steal.

Please ensure you:

• Always lock your bike using a hardened, ‘D’-type lock. The cheaper, cable-type locks can be removed relatively easily
• Attach the lock through the frame and to a strong structure that is fixed to the ground or a building, whenever possible
• If you can, lock the bike in a well-lit location and somewhere with people walking by
• Mark your property with your postcode and register it for free at www.bikeregister.comLink opens in a new window

Whether you are on or off campus, this may be the first time you have lived away from home, or the first time that you have shared a house or flat. Check out the Safer Students guidance from the West Midlands Police.

Remember:

• Always lock your room, front and rear doors of your accommodation, even when there is someone at home. This is because most burglars are opportunists and may try to steal items that are located close to open doors and windows, such as wallets, phones, keys and laptops.
• Do not allow anyone into your home unless you know who they are.
• Do not leave ID cards, cash cards, money, chequebooks or keys lying around.
• Never leave your home unlocked when you leave it - even if it is only for a short period of time. Make sure all windows are closed and locked.
• Never cover your smoke alarm or leave cooking unattended. Devise an escape route in case there’s a fire, and make sure to keep it clear.
• It is a good idea to use a timer device to turn on lights and a radio. These can be bought very cheaply and are a sound investment.
• Do not leave your personal belongings where they can be seen through doors and windows.
• Make sure you buy contents insurance for all your gadgets and tech, and you can register them at www.immobilise.com
• If you’re renting privately, check that your landlord has a valid Gas Safety Certificate; get a carbon dioxide detector if there isn't one already installed; and check your smoke alarm is working regularly. Press the button twice, once to turn it on and again to turn it off.
• If you see anyone acting suspiciously, report it to the police by calling 101. If a crime is taking place there and then, call 999.

Check out The Lock NUS website for more advice on personal security.

Scamming is more common amongst students than you think. Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police.

They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment.

STOP: Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information. It could keep you safe.

CHALLENGE: Ask yourself, could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

PROTECT: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve been scammed and report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or contact Community Safety.

The bottom line is that SLC, HMRC, banks, PayPal, eBay, etc. will never ask you to reveal personal details over email. If you're asked to do it, don't.

Currently, only Leamington Spa has local area provisions to help with safety and support. You can check out their offering on our local area pages.