London is a safe city, and you are unlikely to become the victim of crime here. However, there are a number of simple steps you can take to help protect yourself and your belongings.
We’ve gathered some useful advice and guidance on staying safe as a student in London, as well as what to do if you are affected by crime and the ways in which we can support you.
Please remember that your safety and wellbeing is our top priority, and we are here for you if you ever do become affected by crime.
Guidance on staying safe
1. Stay in bright, well lit and busy areas
When travelling, particularly by night, make sure to stay in busy and well-lit areas. If you get lost or are unsure of where to go, find a local café, bar or shop where you can stop to find directions.
2. Plan ahead when travelling
Planning your route in advance will help you to travel with confidence. Apps like Google Maps and CityMapper can be useful for finding the quickest routes around the city.
3. Don't leave your valuables on show
Make sure to put your valuables away after making payments and try to use your phone minimally while out in public. If you are in a café or bar, keep your valuables out of sight, rather than leaving them on a table.
4. Spread your valuable items around your body and keep them close to you
Crimes like pickpocketing often happen on public transport. By spreading your belongings around your body there is less chance of having multiple valuables taken at once. You could also use a cross-body bag to keep your valuables in sight.
5. Travel with others
Make sure to look out for others. Travelling with friends will make you less likely to become a victim of crime. The UAL Students’ Union Companion Scheme is a great way of meeting new people with shared interests.
6. Stay in regular contact with friends and family
If you do travel alone, make sure to let people know you are going out and when you'll be back. Free apps, such as Find My Friends, allow you to track your friends’ whereabouts with their consent, and to be notified when they arrive at or leave a destination.
7. Don't leave valuables unattended
Take care not to leave valuable items unattended, particularly small items such as phones and wallets. If you are working on campus, make sure to ask somebody nearby to watch your things.
8. Don't take unnecessary risks
Avoid carrying your passport or too much cash with you. If you are the victim of crime, don’t confront a thief or do anything that will risk your own safety.
Read more:
For more advice and guidance, read the ‘Tips and advice for staying safe’ story on the UAL website.
What to do if you are a victim of crime
If you are a victim of a crime, the College is here to support you.
If you're close to the LCC site, visit the Information Centre at the front of the College.
If you need to contact somebody and don’t have a phone, you will be able to use a telephone in the Information Centre free of charge.
The Information Centre staff will also help advise on what to do next, such as contacting the police, or letting you know about student support services that are available.
Student Services
Student Services at UAL includes counselling, health advice, chaplaincy, disability and dyslexia support, and advice on funding, immigration and visas.
Find out more about Student Services at UAL.
Arts SU Companion Scheme
The Students' Union Companion Scheme is a great way of connecting with new people, but also creating a sense of mutual support.
Links and resources
Emergency Contacts
If you're in immediate danger of hurting yourself or others:
- A&E - Search for your local hospital.
- Call 999 in an emergency to request an ambulance, fire brigade or the police.
- For non-urgent crime, dial 101 to be put in contact with your local police station.
- Southwark Community Safety: 020 75255777.
Cyber Safety
It's more important than ever to be aware of suspicious activity online. Find out more about staying safe online.
