Practical advice for Foreign Students Studying in the UK

Personal Safety

• When you go out, find out where you're going and let your host family know and tell them when they should expect you back


• Plan your trip/journey ahead - ask yourself, how are you going to get there?


• Try and go out in a group or with a friend and never walk alone at night if you can help it use a taxi - 0800 654 321 (freephone) will connect you to the nearest taxi company.


• Always use well lit, busy roads and try to avoid shortcuts through dark quiet areas.


• Stay alert - be aware of your surroundings - don't wear your personal stereo/cd player if you are out alone because you won't be able to hear if someone is following you.


• Don't speak to people you don't know, or go up to their cars, even if they speak to you first.


• Consider carrying a Personal Attack Alarm but not a self-defence spray as these are illegal in England.


• Never carry all your money or passport with you and try to keep valuable objects like cameras out of sight.


• Never leave your bag unattended in public places. It could be stolen.

What if Something Happens Whilst I am in the UK?

If you are a victim of theft, assaulted, followed or threatened in any way whilst you are out, then go into a shop, a police station or any public building and ask for help. Ask somebody to contact the Police for you. Do not worry about language difficulties, the Police will find an interpreter who speaks your language free of charge. If you are worried about contacting the police about something that has happened to you, do not keep it to yourself. Tell your host family, a tutor or someone you trust, they will support you and if necessary contact the police on your behalf.

Who can I call for Help?

• In an emergency always dial 999


• A non-emergency Police call 0845 60 70 999 (Students is Sussex only)


• Victim Support Helpline call 0845 30 30 900

Racial Harassment is illegal in the UK and there are laws to protect you.

If you have been a victim of the following because of your race, nationality and ethnic origin then you must report it.

• Physical abuse


• Threats


• Verbal abuse


• Sexual abuse


• Written / printed abuse


• Graffiti

If it is an emergency then always dial 999

Remember your time in the United Kingdom should be fun and trouble free but if you do have a problem then there are people to help you, whether you go to your Tutor, phone the police or get in contact with the Racial Harassment Team at your local Council.

REMEMBER RACIAL HARASSMENT IS A CRIME
DON'T ACCEPT IT , REPORT IT