College and University Safety

Starting or Returning to College or University? Stay Safe This Term

Advice from West Midlands Police

Hello Resident

As a new academic year begins, West Midlands Police would like to welcome all students who are starting or returning to college and university across our region. Whether you’re moving away from home for the first time or coming back to familiar surroundings, this can be an exciting time – but it’s also important to think about your personal safety and security.

Here are some key tips to help you stay safe and make the most of your time as a student.

Protect Your Home and Belongings

Student accommodation can be a target for opportunistic thieves, especially during the first few weeks of term.

Always lock doors and windows, even if you’re just popping out for a short time.

Don’t leave valuables on display – laptops, phones and tablets should be kept out of sight.

Register your property for free on Immobilise and consider marking items with a UV pen.

Make sure doors are locked and windows secured before going to bed or leaving the house.

Out and About: Travel Safely

Getting to know new routes, campuses and city centres takes time.

Stick to well-lit, busy routes when walking, especially at night.

Avoid using your phone openly while walking – this can make you vulnerable to phone snatches.

If using public transport or taxis, plan your journey in advance and share your travel details with someone you trust.

Trust your instincts – if something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation.

Nightlife and Socialising

Meeting new people and socialising is a big part of student life, but staying safe should always come first.

Keep an eye on your drink and never leave it unattended.

Don’t feel pressured to drink more than you want to – it’s okay to say no.

Stay with friends and look out for each other on nights out.

Make sure you have a safe way to get home planned before you go out.

Personal Safety and Awareness

Taking small steps can make a big difference to your safety.

Carry your bag zipped and worn across your body where possible.

Avoid wearing headphones at high volume so you remain aware of your surroundings.

Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone, including 999 for emergencies and 101 for non-emergencies.

Online Safety

Students are often targeted by online scams and fraud.

Be cautious of emails or messages asking for personal or financial details, even if they appear to be from your university or bank.

Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication where possible.

Be careful about what you share on social media, including your location and daily routines.

If Something Happens

If you are ever in immediate danger, call 999 straight away. For non-emergency concerns, suspicious activity or to report a crime, call 101 or report online. If you’ve been affected by crime, support services are available – you don’t have to deal with it alone.

West Midlands Police work closely with universities, colleges and local partners to keep students safe. By taking simple precautions and looking out for one another, you can help reduce risk and enjoy a positive, safe start to the academic year.

We wish all students a successful and safe term ahead.

Please Share!

⚠WMNow is not suitable for reporting crimes ⚠
Please ensure you are still utilising our crime reporting platforms below.

101, Online Webchat & WMP Website – Non emergency crime reporting / check on the progress of your report 
Report a crime | West Midlands Police

999 – Emergency / Ongoing incident