Safety
Worcester is a very safe city with low crime levels compared to other cities. However, it is always good to know where to go for help if you need it, and sensible to take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime.
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The University of Worcester Security Team. |
If you are a victim of crime, our University Police Community Support Officer(PCSOs), Jamie Denning, is here to help. He is based at the University and can be accessed either via email pcso@worc.ac.uk or by telephoning 01905 542629.
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Callmy Alert App |
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Lock up Make sure your accommodation is kept secure by closing all of your windows and locking your doors. If you are living in communal housing, pay particular attention to your communal door entrance and ensure it is properly shut and secured when entering or exiting your building in order to promote the safety of your flat or housemates as well as yourselves. |
| Your Belongings Don't leave possessions such as bags, laptops, mobile phones and MP3 players unattended. If you buy new TVs, laptops, PCs or white goods when you come to University, don't advertise this opportunity to burglars or thieves by putting the packaging outside of the house. Either break down the packaging to fit in your recycling bin or take it to a local recycling site. |
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Bikes Lock up all bikes securely using recommended 'D' locks to fixed bike sheds or designated areas. Look out for the University's 'Bike Marking' events where you can get your bike labeled securely for free. There's more information about secure bike storage on campus on firstpoint's transport webpage. |
| Get home safe Don't walk home alone late at night. Try and walk back with friends or get a taxi. When using taxis, make sure they are marked taxis or registered minicabs, and bear in mind that when you book your taxi you can always ask for a rough pricing estimate so that you have an idea of how much it will cost. |
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There are a number of taxis operating in and around the City Centre, including designated taxi ranks in the centre of town and by the Elgar Statue.
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Ask for Angela |
| Look out for your friends When you are out in town with friends, make sure you travel in groups. Don't leave each other with strangers who you've only just met. and make sure you're aware of where you friends are. At the end of the night, try and get a taxi as a group or walk home together to make sure you all return home safely. |
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The Victim's Code If you are the victim of a crime, whoever you are and whatever the crime, you have the right to be informed about the criminal justice process and the support available. The Victims’ Code explains the rights that everyone can expect to receive as a victim of crime. Find out more about your rights and the support available on the Victim and Witness Information webpage. |
Safety by the water
The Home and Dry campaign was set up locally in 2017 to promote water safety and provide information and guidance on keeping safe.
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Why not try the Free Online Water Safety Course, which has some really powerful illustrations of some of the dangers of inland waterways, and gives you lots of tips about what to do to save yourself or others in an emergency. The Police and Crime Commissioner and a range of other agencies are uniting to drive a campaign to ensure people get home and dry. |
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Home and Dry - West Mercia Police Crime Commissioner
- Stay Alert and Aware
- Keep your head up and avoid distractions like texting or wearing headphones while walking.
- Trust your instincts - if something feels off or you feel uncomfortable, don't hesitate to change your route or seek help.
- Use the Buddy System
- Always walk with friends, especially at night, and establish a plan for getting home together.
- Know where you’re going, stick to well-lit areas and use the University’s suggested route back to campus, available from the Student Security Handbook.
- Know Your Resources
- Download the Callmy app: use the code 'WR2 students' after downloading the app and registering.
- Keep important numbers saved in your phone, including campus security.
- Carry a personal safety alarm that can deter potential threats and signal for help if needed. You can collect a free one from firstpoint or by emailing studentlife@worc.ac.uk
- Take care of your belongings
- Avoid displaying your valuable items in public, and keep things like keys, money and your phone in different places from one another.
- Never leave your drink unattended, and avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
- Choose Safe Transportation
- Opt for reputable taxi services or rideshare apps and share your journey details with a friend.
- Know your route and plan ahead, especially at night. where possible, always travel with friends.
- Cultivate Supportive Relationships
Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Engage in open conversations about feelings and experiences to deepen connections and foster a sense of belonging.
- Establish Healthy Boundaries
Clearly communicate your needs in relationships to ensure mutual respect. This helps protect your emotional space and fosters healthier interactions.
- Build Resilience Against Peer Pressure
Strengthen your sense of self by identifying your values and beliefs. Practice assertiveness skills to confidently say "no" when faced with peer pressure or situations that don't align with your values.
- Practice Self-Reflection
Take time to reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Regularly Journaling can help you clarify your values, recognise patterns in your behaviour, and understand your reactions to different situations.
- Explore New Interests
Step out of your comfort zone by trying new activities or hobbies. This not only helps you discover more about yourself but also provides opportunities to meet new people and expand your social circle.
If you’ve experienced something that did not feel right or has made you feel unsafe, and you want to talk about it, contact the Student Life advisers for non-judgemental support - no matter what’s on your mind. email: studentlife@worc.ac.uk
Useful Links
Contact us
To book an appointment, please contact firstpoint. Alternatively, you can contact a member of the Student Support and Wellbeing Team directly via email on studentlife@worc.ac.uk.