How to Stay Safe at University
When Studying in the UK
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How to Stay Safe at University When Studying in the UK
The United Kingdom is the home to some of the best universities in the
world. Because of this, students from all over the world come to study
at UK universities. Most international students are excited about a new
adventure and being in a new country. However, moving to a new
country can also be overwhelming. It’s normal to be a little concerned
about your safety and wellbeing.
While there’s no real cause for concern, it’s always better to be safe
than sorry. Keep the following tips on how to stay safe at university in
mind so you can feel more comfortable in your new environment.
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How to Stay Safe at University in the UK
Generally, you don’t need to be worried about your safety
when studying at a university in the UK. The UK is a fairly
peaceful nation and ranked 33 on the Global Peace Index
2021. This is a comprehensive list of 163 countries.
While you’ll likely be safe on campus, it’s still a good idea to
be careful when in the city. This is especially true if you’re
moving to a large city like London and Manchester. Keep
these safety tips in mind so that your university experience
in the UK can be a great one.
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Store Important Documents and Valuables Carefully
The best safety tip we can give you is always taking care of
your valuables and important documents. Your passport
and official paperwork contain sensitive information that
you must protect. Instead of leaving these lying around,
store them in a safe place. Other important cards like your
Student ID card should be kept on you at all times.
We would also advise taking pictures of important
documents so you have them available on your phone in
case of emergencies.
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Sort Out Your Health Insurance
One of the first things you should take care of
when arriving at university in the UK is your
health insurance paperwork. As a student, you
may be entitled to treatment from the National
Health Service (NHS) once you’ve registered.
However, this isn’t always the case. For
example, if you’re doing a short course, you may
have to get health insurance from your home
country. In either case, this should be taken care
of in case of emergencies.
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Note Down the Emergency Numbers
Knowing the emergency numbers is one of the first
things you should do when you arrive in a new
nation. While this is one of our more obvious safety
tips, it still needs to be said. It’s crucial that you save
the emergency numbers since they will allow you to
reach the police, the fire department, or an
ambulance. In the UK, these are 999 and 112.
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Get To Know Your Surroundings
When you’re in a new city or country, it’s always best to
explore and get to know it. However, before you do so, don’t
forget to note down your accommodation details on a piece
of paper or as a note on your phone. If you lose your way,
you can always ask someone to help you or guide you in the
right direction.
This also involves getting to know the public transport
system. Download the bus and train timetables, so you know
how to navigate your new city. When you become more
familiar with the routes, you’ll generally feel safer.
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Have a Plan
When You Go Out at Night
Whether you’re going to the theatre or getting a pint with your
friends, you should always have a way to get back to your dorm
or apartment. If you’re staying out late, you should know when
the last train leaves or pre-book a taxi. It’s also a good idea to
check in with friends and share your location if you feel unsafe.
Additionally, take routes you’re already comfortable with and
make sure you have your ID card, phone, keys, and money with
you when you go out. Avoid dark streets and alleyways, and
stick to well-lit areas if it's dark outside.
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Pickpockets Are Common in
Urban Areas
If you’re in a large city like London or
Manchester, you may come across
pickpockets. These thieves work in teams and
may bump into you or otherwise try to steal
your belongings. Be on the lookout for unusual
behaviour and stay attentive. It’s also a smart
idea to choose a bag that’s close to your body
(like a cross-body bag) instead of an open tote
that people can reach into.
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Don’t Put All Your Money in
One Place
It’s a good idea not to keep all your money in
one place. While you should carry cash, don’t
leave all of it and all your debit cards in a
single place. Once you arrive in the UK, open a
bank and deposit any cash that you’ve
brought with you for safekeeping. This is also
useful in case you lose or misplace your
wallet. In this case, you’ll have money
available while you resolve the issue.
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Take Care When Using ATMs
You will need to withdraw cash from the
ATM time to time. However, it’s always
best to be careful when doing so. Make
sure there aren’t people close to you
looking at your PIN, and cover the
numbers with your hand or sleeve as
you’re typing them in. If you note
suspicious activity and are alone, it’s best
to go to another ATM.
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Ensure Accommodation Safety
You don’t have to worry too much about people breaking in if
you're living on campus. In addition to there being safety in
numbers, most UK universities have security teams and CCTV
cameras.
However, accommodation safety can be an issue if you stay
off-campus and rent a flat. Leaving your doors and windows
open may result in burglars targeting your home. Closing your
windows is especially important if you live on the ground
floor. Locking the door when you leave your apartment and
always having your keys on your person are good ideas.
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Conclusion
Studying at a UK university is generally safe because
of the low level of crime in the country. However,
emergencies and accidents can happen without
prior warning. Use these tips on how to stay safe at
university and beware of your surroundings, so you
aren’t the victim of a crime. This way, you can
ensure that your UK university experience is an
excellent one.
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