Keeping yourself safe during the darker nights

On Sunday 27 October at 2am, the clocks will go back by 1 hour, giving us an extra hour of daylight but longer, darker evenings.

We want everyone to feel safe at UoB, so we’ve compiled some top tips to help keep yourself safe during these darker evenings.

Download the SafeZone app

This free app offers round-the-clock safety reassurance right from your mobile phone. Whether you're working late, walking home alone, or see something that doesn’t seem right, SafeZone connects you directly to our Campus Safety and Security Team, who are ready to respond.  

Find out more about the SafeZone app, which includes live chat, one-button assistance requests so you don't need to remember phone numbers, and updates in the event of an emergency.

Pick up your free personal safety equipment from the Community Safety Hub

You can collect your free personal safety equipment at the Community Safety Hub, located at North Gate, open Monday-Friday from 10am-4pm. Make sure to get your:

  • Personal safety alarms
  • Window and door alarms
  • D-locks and free Bike Registration on the National Cycle Database
  • Anti-theft bells
  • Card defenders (anti fraud cards)
  • Anti-theft cans.

Walking home

If you’re leaving campus or walking late at night, make sure to have somebody else to walk with. Check in with a friend or flatmate to let them know what time you’re expected home. Let’s try and look out for each other.

  • It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings if you’re walking alone - using a mobile phone, whether calling, texting, or listening to music through headphones can affect your awareness.
  • Carry a personal safety alarm with you, available from the Community Safety Hub.
  • Stick to well-lit areas and main roads. If you’re walking from campus to the Vale, use the preferred walking route devised by UoB and West Midlands police.
  • Hop on the Guild’s free shuttle bus service, The Selly Express. The Selly Express runs every weekday evening from the back of the Main Library, covering Selly Oak and some parts of Harborne.
  • Use licensed taxis.

Get involved on campus

The Guild and Community Safety Team are working together to offer you an action packed week of fun-filled events on campus. 

Meet the Community Safety Team on:

  • Tuesday 29 October, 2pm-4pm: Personal Safety stall, Green Heart, main campus
  • Wednesday 30 October, 4.15pm-5pm: Spooky Walking Bus, Bournbrook and Shackleton reception
  • Thursday 31 October, 4pm-6pm: Pumpkin relay, University running track, behind Tennis Courts, Edgbaston Park Road

Guild events:

Wednesday 6 November, Wednesday 13 November and Wednesday 20 November, 6pm-7pm: Self-Defense Classes, Dance Studio, Guld of Students

Browse the Guild website for more events and information.

Save key emergency contact numbers

Don’t be afraid to call for help if you need it. Make sure you’re familiar with these numbers:

  • 999 – Emergency services – be encouraged to call if you feel you are in danger
  • 0121 414 444 – On campus security (emergency)
  • 0121 414 2613 – On-campus Community Safety Hub

For further information on general student safety, visit your Staff Intranet pages. 

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