Keeping safe on a night out – a helpful guide

We've collaborated with AUBSU to put together a list of top tips and accessible resources to help with keeping safe this winter, plus some helpful information on where to get support if it's needed. We spoke with Beth Evans, current President of Student Experience, about what to keep in mind:

"It's important for students to take extra care to stay safe to make themselves feel more at ease. We don't want students to feel unsafe, so we want to empower them to be mindful of their behaviour to hopefully make themselves feel safer. Now the nights are drawing in, and it’s colder, it’s important to make sure to remember important and simple safety tips to prevent getting hurt or to remember the things that are helpful in case something bad happens. The tips we're sharing are simple and easy to remember so that they're accessible for everyone to implement."

There's safety in numbers, so one of our most important bits of advice is to always walk as a group. If you're alone, it might be worth calling up a friend to stay on the phone while you get somewhere safe. Always remember that keeping safe is a shared experience, and Beth can vouch for this too.

"I personally struggle doing things on my own – I don’t always feel safe walking alone, especially in the dark. I'm conscious that something could happen to me. I think knowing what I would do in case something happened or how to prevent it puts my mind at ease, to know that I'm as safe as I possibly can be. I think having that ‘escape route’ and preparation makes me feel more empowered to do the things I need on my own because I know I have a plan in case something goes wrong."

As an AUB student that's part of our creative community, we're always here to support you. Beth explains how the SU and our student services can offer advice or simply a safe place:

"We always want to be an open and welcoming space for students. If something has happened and no one else is available, we can always share the next steps and things you can do to get support. You're always welcome to just come in for a chat (we usually have snacks too). If at any point you need to charge your phone, then you can come into our office and borrow one of our chargers. We also have anti spiking stickers and bottle tops for anyone that would like them."

You're invited to follow our campaign which starts on Monday 25 November on Instagram via @aubstudentservices and @aubsu. Before then, here's our main advice:

• Stay connected. Whether you’re heading out for late-night rehearsals, meeting up with friends or heading home from a long day in the studio, share your location with a friend or let someone know where you’re headed.
• Know your surroundings. Take a moment to get familiar with the area. Walking at night? Choose well-lit, populated areas and check for exits.
• Ask for Angela. If you're in a bar or pub, asking a server for 'Angela' is a great way of asking for assistance safely. You could also request a top and straw for your drink to prevent spiking too.
  
• Need to report an incident? Here's how. If you ever feel unsafe, see something suspicious, or experience an incident, report it via our Report and Support website.
• Emergency contacts. Save these in your phone. You never know when you or a friend might need them.
• Safety equipment. We'd absolutely recommend keeping a keyring alarm for any late walks at night. As another great option, apps like Hollieguard offer extra features like personal alarms, deterrents, evidence catchers and more.
  
• Need support? Our wellbeing team are here to offer you a non-judgmental space to freely discuss your concerns and provide emotional support.

The Wellbeing drop in is open from 10.00-14.00 Monday to Friday in Student Services – no appointment needed. It's also worth noting our campus is staffed by 24-hour approachable security, so if you think your safety has been compromised on campus, don't hesitate to reach out.

We hope you all enjoy the upcoming winter months during your time at AUB. Make sure to stay safe, wrap up and have fun. Student Support Manager Ce Johnson says: ‘Prioritising your personal safety is about valuing ‘you’. Let’s look after ourselves and each other. Your creativity is precious – so is your safety! Stay aware and stay safe.’