How to Stay Safe: Freshers Week

Stay Safe during Freshers Week

Starting university is an exciting time, and freshers week is a great opportunity to make friends and get involved in campus life. However, it's important to remember the importance of staying safe during this time.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe during freshers week:

1. Plan ahead: Make sure you know how you're getting home before you go out. If you're taking public transport, check the timetable in advance. If you're walking, make sure you know the route and stick to well-lit areas. Consider taking a reputable taxi or minicab but be sure to book via phone, app or at a cab office, or ask the venue to help you.

2. Drink in safer venues: Choose your venues wisely - look for the Licensing SAVI stars which indicate a venue has done all they can to ensure you have a safer night. You can find these on some university campuses and in towns across the UK. Use our Find a Venue map to plan your next night out!
   
   
3. Stick with a group/buddy: It's always safer to travel in groups, especially if you're not familiar with the area. Stick with a group of friends or join an organised event, especially when drinking. Consider travelling back together, or ‘checking in’ when you each arrive home safely. If you go home with another person, ensure your friends know who you're with and where you're going.
   
   
4. Know your limits: It's easy to get carried away with drinking during freshers week, but it's important to do so safely. Consider pacing yourself and alternating alcoholic drinks with water. Remember, drugs and alcohol can severely impair decision making.
   
   
5. Keep an eye on your drink: Don't leave your drink unattended, and always watch it being made. If something seems off, don't drink it. Report any concerns to venue staff - use Ask for Angela/Ask for Clive if you feel vulnerable. Find out more about spiking here, or report to the Police on their dedicated spiking report page.
   
   
6. Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on the people and location around you and be aware of any potential dangers. Speak to venue staff if you have concerns.
   
   
7. Know who to contact in an emergency: Make sure you have the contact details for university security, the police and any other relevant services saved in your phone in case of an emergency.
   
   
8. Consider using a safety app: WalkSafe is a free personal safety app which provides information on safe spaces. Use the map features to find safer venues and places to find help, and share your route information with trusted contacts.

Remember, freshers week is just the beginning of your university experience. By staying safe, you'll be able to enjoy all that university has to offer without putting yourself at risk.