Whether you’re out with friends, studying, or heading home from work, we want you to feel safe and know how to look out for each other and here are our top tips:
- Download the Safezone App: Safezone is designed to help keep you safe and give you extra peace of mind across campuses in the city. Download the app you can connect quickly to campus support and security if you ever feel unsafe or need medical assistance.
- Watch your belongings: Working or relaxing in a café? Don’t leave your phones and laptops unattended, even for a minute. This applies on campus too – don’t leave your things out in the Library (or any campus building) when you need a break.
- Stay focused: Try not to walk and scroll—your phone is safer in your bag, and you’ll be more aware of your surroundings and traffic when crossing busy roads. Carrying a bag? Make sure it’s closed securely – preferably with a zip. We recently shared lots more tips for keeping your phone safe – take a look.
- Stick to main roads: Walk along well-lit, busy routes, especially at night, and avoid shortcuts.
- Plan your journey if out late: Before heading out, plan how you’ll get home safely and let your friends know. Check out our recent post on safe travel options.
- Charge your phone and share your location: Make sure your phone is charged and share your live location with friends on WhatsApp or Snapchat. It’s always best to try and stick with your group on a night out, but if you do get separated, you’ll be able to find each other.
- Know your limits: If you drink alcohol or use drugs, be mindful of how much and where you get them from. Free drug-testing kits are available at the Students’ Union Advice Centre, and we’ve also got some super simple tips to help you fine-tune your drinking and resources to support students who take drugs.
- Respect others: It’s not “just a joke” if it makes someone uncomfortable, and no one should have to put up with any kind of harassment. The University has a zero-tolerance approach to harassment, and you can and should call out your friends if they’re not acting OK. Read more about how you can become an active bystander, or what you can do if you have been a victim of harassment, here.
Be cautious, not afraid
Manchester is a busy city, and while it’s smart to be careful, be assured that the University, Students’ Union, and City Council are working together to ensure Manchester is a safe environment and inclusive city.
Need support?
Our Campus Support and Security Team is available 24/7, to help with wellbeing and safety concerns – and with Safezone you can reach them quickly if you ever feel unsafe.
Manchester Student Homes have free personal alarms available for students– call into the hub in the Student’s Union to collect one.
Check out the Good Night Out Guide for advice and information staying safe on night’s out in Manchester.
For more general safety information take a look at the Student Support website.
If you’re a victim of crime, or witness a crime, you can report it to the police by calling 101, visit your local police station or report it online. If you’re in danger, or it’s an emergency, call 999.