Tips and advice on keeping yourself protected from crime: from pickpocketing and personal robbery to harassment and dealing with violent situations.

Look confident
You are less likely to be targeted if you look confident. Move with purpose and try to be aware of your surroundings.

Know where you’re going
Plan your route and think about what to take with you, especially if you’re going somewhere you haven’t been before. Keep to busy, well-lit streets, walkways and paths which are more likely to be covered by CCTV. Only take licensed taxis or minicabs booked by phone or a mobile phone app.

Hide it
Keep your mobile phone and valuables out of sight. If you’re using your phone it’s more likely to be snatched from your hand as you’re not paying attention to your surroundings, so look around you.

And never leave a mobile, any other device, wallet or purse on the table of an outdoor café, pub or restaurant. Same goes for any jewellery you might be wearing – keep it covered when walking down the street.

Finally – and this is so important to remember – if you’re threatened with violence, don’t risk your personal safety. Property can be replaced, you can’t.

If you ever feel at risk, or a crime is in progress, please always dial 999. 

If you aren’t comfortable contacting us directly, information can also be given anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, they never ask your name and they cannot trace your call or I.P address. You can call 0800 555 111 or visit their website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org.