Helping you Be Safe around campus

Did you know that one of the top priorities of the Students’ Union here at Staffs, as well as the University’s Cop Shop, is to keep you safe on and around campus?

Now the dark nights are drawing in, Staffordshire University is rolling out their Be Safe campaign. Not only do they aim to keep you safe on campus, but off campus too. So, from getting to early lectures, travelling home from town or work in the dark, to getting home safe after a night out, here are a few of our top tips to make your time at uni enjoyable… and safe!!

Safety on and around campus

• Get a safe card from your hall warden with handy numbers for the local police, NHS, Samaritans and licensed taxi numbers.
• Although we ensure that campus is well-lit in all areas, make sure that you are still aware at all times – avoid talking on the phone or having your headphones loud so that it might distract from possible danger signs.
• If you’re laden down with books and bags on your way back home, make sure you leave one hand free while you walk.
• Don’t be afraid to report anything you find suspicious to the campus police or dial 999 in an emergency. The non-emergency number to speak to the police is 101.
• If you see someone else in danger, don’t automatically rush to help them. This may make the problem worse. Instead call the police.

Safety off campus

• Consider a personal alarm.
• Although some places may be fine by day, ask if there are any places that should be avoided at night.
• If you use a taxi company to get to and from town, make sure they are reputable and, if you feel uncomfortable at any point, do not use them.
• Always wait for public transport in a well-lit and busy area if possible.
• Stick to streets you know and always stay aware of your surroundings.

Safety on a night out

• Always have a plan on how you’re going to get home. Make sure friends and/or family know where you’re going and who with.
• Never leave your drink unattended and if something feels weird (or you see someone else messing with drinks) let venue staff know right away.
• Plan ahead when going out with friends if you’re travelling back together, and make sure you ‘check in’ when you arrive home.
• Staffs Students’Union also have the Union Angels. They are volunteers who will help anyone who has had too much to drink get home safe and get snacks and water.

You can find more helpful tips on the Union website, as well as a helpful video about consent.

The Cop Shop are also holding drop in sessions to make sure you’re set up for safety on campus and off. Check out their social media for more updates on sessions and advice.