If you do encounter a problem, crime or injury, you must inform International Advice and Guidance, even if you have already contacted the Police or University security.
For detailed safety information we recommend you read over the British Council's 'Safety First' Guide.
Staying Safe
In the video below, international students share advice on staying safe during your time at university.
Staying Safe Online
It is really imprtant to think about how to protect your digital footprint. Merseyside Police and the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU) have put together some really useful guides. Please take time to read them below:
Fraud and Scams
You should always be aware of how to protect yourself from fraud and scams that target international students. Please take time to familiarise yourself with the book below which explains many of these scam attempts in detail:
If you or someone you know is approached with these types of calls or messages, stop all contact and ask for advice from someone you trust. Criminals operate in silence. If you talk about it, you raise awareness and help protect others.
Report it by calling local Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
Contact the independent charity CrimeStoppers anonymously online or by calling 0800 555 111.
Keeping yourself safe
Merseyside Police have created these personal safety videos:
Keeping Safe on Your Night Out
Reducing the Chances of Being Burgled
Do not walk alone, especially at night. You should always try to walk in groups of at least 2.
If walking at night, stay in well-lit, public areas. Walk only along main roads.
Do not carry large amounts of money with you, but ensure you have enough money at the start of the day for all of your expenses.
If you are in an emergency, dial 999 for free. You will then be asked who you want to speak with; Police, Fire service or Ambulance (for medical emergencies).
If you wish to report a crime but not an emergency, you should contact your local police station. Find out where your local police station is: http://www.merseyside.police.uk
Carry the telephone number of a local taxi firm in your mobile phone or in your wallet or bag.
Always use a licensed taxi. These will have official plates on the outside rear of the car.
Do not accept drinks from strangers.
Keeping your possessions safe
Get insurance for your possessions.
Do not leave bags or valuable items (laptops, ipads, mobile phones) unattended for any amount of time. Liverpool is a safe city but leaving items unattended gives criminals the opportunity to steal.
Be aware that using your mobile phone or MP3 player in public can draw attention to you and your belongings.
If you have a bicycle, make sure you securely lock it by the frame and wheel to a fixed object (railing, bicycle stand).
Mark your items using an ultraviolet pen with your name, postcode and student ID number.
Finding accommodation
Talk to the Accommodation Office or Liverpool Student Homes about private accommodation providers.
Always view a property before signing a contract.
If possible, take someone with you to view the property. If you view it alone, be sure to leave the address with a friend.
Find out if and with who you will be sharing the property.
Stay safe in your accommodation
Ensure valuable items and cash cannot be seen through windows.
Do not leave keys inside by the door and do not leave spare keys outside or in a garage or shed.
Do not leave open windows unattended. Make sure all doors and windows are locked when you leave.
Use a safety chain on the front door and use a spy hole if you have one.
If you live in a flat with a door entry system, only put your flat number or family name on the buzzer (do not write Mr, Miss, Ms).
If you do not have a smoke alarm, buy one. If a fire occurs, it can save your life. You should also ask your landlord about this.
Any electrical or gas equipment in the house (cookers, fires, heaters) should be checked annually. Ask your landlord to show you the most recent safety certificates.
If you are leaving the house empty to go home/on holiday, ask a friend to visit the house to open/close the curtains. Use a time-switch for lamps - these can be bought from supermarkets, hardware shops and online.
If you return to your property and see signs of a break-in, do not enter or touch anything. Contact the police immediately.
General safety advice
Do not carry drugs with you unless prescribed by a doctor.
It is illegal to carry any type of weapon, including knives and CS gas spray.
Consider buying a personal attack alarm if you feel unsafe whilst walking around.
Do not buy items you think might have been stolen. If the price seems too good to be true, it usually is.
If someone threatens violence and demands your wallet or bag, give it to them. Possessions can be replaced; it is better to keep yourself safe.
Police officers and Community Street Wardens can often be seen walking the streets. If you feel unsafe, approach them.
Shred personal documents you do not need. This will protect you from identity fraud.
Keep all internet passwords and ATM card PIN numbers secret.
If you are a victim of a crime, ALWAYS report it to the police as soon as possible.
Useful contacts
- University of Liverpool security - (0151) 794 3252
- Merseyside Police (non-urgent) - (0151) 709 6010
- Student health (Doctor on campus) - (0151) 794 4720
- NHS Direct - 0845 4647
- Liverpool Women’s Hospital - (0151) 709 1000
- Royal Liverpool Hospital - (0151) 706 2000
- Report a gas leak - 0800 111 999 (free)
Stolen Bank Card lines:
- Barclays - 01604 230 230
- HSBC - 08456 007 010
- Lloyds - 01273 799 272
- Natwest - 0870 6000 459