Keeping safe on campus

The clocks went back on Sunday 27 October 2024. This means that it will be darker earlier in the day, so here are our top tips for staying safe on campus and when you’re travelling to and from it.

Stay alert

Keep your belongings in your pocket and stay alert when travelling to or from campus and whilst you’re on it, particularly when it’s dark. Like in any town or city, sometimes theft happens, but if your phone is safely in your pocket or bag you can keep any risk to a minimum. Similarly when you’re on campus; whether you’re relaxing in a café or studying in the library don’t leave your belongings on show or unattended – even for a couple of minutes.

We also recommend that you stick to well-lit roads and pavements as you travel around your campus town or city and avoid using underpasses where possible. If you wear noise cancelling headphones make sure to change the settings so you can still hear your surroundings whilst you’re out and about.

Remember Campus Safety and Security are here to help you 24/7

If you need an emergency service, phone 999 from any mobile phone or landline.

If you need non-emergency Police advice, you can phone 101.

If you require non-emergency medical advice then you can phone 111.

If you need an emergency response from the University then please phone security/reception as below. Security will escalate as appropriate.

*Brampton Road is covered by the security team at Fusehill Street - please call for any issues or emergencies.

Travel with mates

If you’re nervous about travelling alone then why not check in with a friend and see if you can go together. Especially if you’re planning a night out, chat to your mates and see how you’re getting to and from wherever you’re going and keep an eye out for anyone travelling alone.

If you do travel on your own, make sure to let someone know when you expect to be back and your intended route. You could even share your location using one of the safety apps mentioned below so you can keep an eye on each other.

Other apps for extra peace of mind

While the evenings are getting lighter, you might find yourself travelling alone when it’s dark if you work late or attend events. There are other apps that can help keep you safe if you are travelling further outside of campus. My SafetiPin, the highest-rated app designed to keep women safe which uses your GPS location to help calculate the best routes to get you from A to B. bSafe has a range of features, such as an SOS button, which can be activated by touch or voice and records your surroundings to send to your chosen contacts, and lets you invite your contacts to follow your location via GPS. There’s also a Fake Call feature, which you can use to make your phone ring to get you out of situations you’re unsure of.

Report unacceptable behaviour

At the University of Cumbria we have a zero-tolerance approach to sexual misconduct, bullying, harassment and discrimination. If you have witnessed any forms of this behaviour, or have a safeguarding concern, you can report it anonymously or get support from a trained advisor. Find out more at You Report We Support.

Looking after yourself

We know that life can sometimes bring its own challenges. If you’re struggling or feeling anxious about your safety or you’re feeling apprehensive about travel to and from campus, we’re here to help.

Sometimes we all need to let it out and talking to someone you trust or speaking to a friend can really help alleviate your worries. See if there’s someone you live with, on your course or a friend from home that is free to have a chat.

If that doesn’t work for you, don’t forget that our mental health support is available to you all year round, from one to one appointments to one-off workshops and online help, there’s something for everyone.