If you’re going out celebrating, whether you’re clubbing, going to a house party or going to a rave, we’ve got some tips for you on how to look after yourself and those around you while also having a blast.
- Looking out for each other
It’s a good idea to make sure your phone is fully charged and to share each other’s locations when going out, especially at big events where it can be easy to lose each other. You can do this on Instagram, Whatsapp and Snapchat. To make sure you and your mates get home safe, you can access the Safe Taxi Scheme, even if you have no cash or card on you.
- Hangxiety? Make drinking work for you
Have you ever blacked out from a night out? Said something you regret or had to cancel plans because of a hangover? We’ve got some super simple tips to help make drinking work for you.
You can also check out the University’s new ‘Policy on The Harmful Use of Substances or Alcohol by Students’, in co-creation with the Students’ Union.
- Take drugs? What’s in the bag?
Read our latest tips on how to reduce the risks if you choose to take drugs, including access to free and anonymous drug testing kits and our drug safety alerts on Student News, so you know when substances in Manchester are being mis-sold or have contaminants in them. Give our ‘Staying Safe’ eLearning module a go to learn more about drugs, the risks when taking them and how to reduce harm.
- Make use of anti-spiking tools
As a result of the Anti-Spiking Partnership, many venues in Manchester now provide anti-spiking tools and test kits. And if you feel unsafe, vulnerable or threatened you can ask for help by approaching staff in these venues and asking them for ‘Angela’. This code-phrase indicates to staff that you need help, and a trained member of staff will then support and assist you.
If you or your friends start to feel strange or unwell then you should get help and seek medical advice straight away by calling 999. Incidents should be reported to the police.
You can also call the Victims Support Helpline on 0300 303 0162.
- Take care of your sexual wellbeing
When was the last time you went for a check-up? It’s good practice to go to a sexual health clinic to get tested so you know you’re not passing anything on unknowingly. The SU’s Advice Service offers free contraception and signposts where you can access emergency contraception. You can also access the University’s Sexual Wellbeing resource, which offers more information.
- Be mindful of your community
Planning on hosting a house party, having predrinks or afters? Be mindful of those you live with and your neighbours around you. Not all students are getting on it, and not everyone in Fallowfield, Withington, and other suburbs are students. Loud music and noise can have a real impact on people’s sleep, mental health and quality of life.