Clocks go back: top safety tips for after dark

The clocks go back on Sunday 26 October, which means an extra hour of daylight but darker evenings. We’ve got four easy ways to help you feel confident and stay safe as the nights draw in.

The good news? On Sunday 26 October at 2am, the clocks go back by one hour, giving us an extra hour in bed! The not so good news? It’ll start getting darker earlier in the evenings. Whatever your plans – evening lectures, nights out, or late snack runs – it’s worth staying alert. That’s why we’ve pulled together a few quick tips to help you stay safe this season.

Download the SafeZone app

SafeZone is a free app that connects you directly to our Campus Safety and Security teams 24/7. Whether you're studying late, walking home alone, or feel something isn’t quite right, help is just a tap away.   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 kit

You can drop by the Community Safety Hub at North Gate, open Monday-Friday from 10am-4pm and grab your free personal safety equipment. You’ll find:

Personal safety alarms

Window and door alarms

D-locks and free bike registration

Anti-theft bells

Card defenders (to prevent fraud)

Anti-theft cans

Find out more about the team from Community Safety Officer Sharon’s ‘day in the life’ video.

Getting home safely

If you’re heading home after dark, here’s a few small steps that can make a difference:

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.

If you’re walking alone and using your phone, whether calling, texting, or listening to music through headphones, try to stay alert. It’s easy to get distracted and not notice what’s happening around you.

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, check out student Beverley’s preferred walking route.

Hop on the Guild’s free shuttle bus service, The Selly Express which runs every weekday night from the back of the Main Library, covering Selly Oak and some parts of Harborne.

Always choose licensed taxis.

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

Let’s look out for each other. Stay safe, stay connected and remember support is always here when you need it.

For further information on general student safety visit our sudent safety intranet pages. 

And finally..

Guild Halloween Spooktacular

Get involved with this fun Halloween event and dress up in themed costume to win a £10 gift card.

Wednesday 29 October, 4.15pm - Spooky Walking Bus - Led by the Guild's Community Ambassadors. Leaving from Bournbrook Pavillion and Shackleton reception (the Vale). There will be spooky facts, music, glow sticks and Halloween accessories, sweets and more!