Staying safe at university: your guide to feeling secure in Liverpool

Starting university is an exciting adventure, full of new friends, opportunities, and independence. As you enjoy everything Liverpool has to offer, it’s important to stay aware and protect yourself, your belongings, and your wellbeing.

At the University of Liverpool, your safety is our priority. From round-the-clock campus support to tips for safe nights out, here’s everything you need to know about staying safe as a student.

Campus safety at the University of Liverpool

Our Campus Support Services are here 24/7 to help you feel safe on campus. The team patrols University grounds, responds to incidents, and provides a free chaperone service to escort you anywhere on site.

  • Call the Campus Support Control Room on 0151 794 3252 for non-emergencies.
  • If you or anyone else is in immediate danger, please call the emergency services on 999.

Tips for staying safe on nights out in Liverpool

Liverpool has an amazing nightlife scene, with an amazing array of pubs, bars, clubs, restaurants, and live music venues. Make the most of it safely with these student safety tips:

  • Drink responsibly: Eat before you go out, alternate alcohol with soft drinks, and stay in a group.
  • Protect your drink: Don’t leave drinks unattended or accept drinks you didn’t see prepared.
  • Plan your route home: Pre-book a taxi or arrange a lift with a designated driver.
  • Use licensed taxis or black cabs; never hitchhike or accept lifts from strangers.
  • Stick together: Walk in groups and stay on well-lit, busy streets.
  • Stay alert: Keep headphones low and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Attract help if you need it. If you feel threatened, make as much noise as possible. This will help you to identify yourself, warn off the individual and attract help from others.

How to protect your accommodation and property

Living away from home for the first time means extra responsibility. Follow these steps to keep your student house, flat, or halls safe:

  • Always lock doors and windows, even if you’re at home.
  • Use light timers to make your home look occupied.
  • Keep laptops, tablets, and valuables out of sight.
  • Don’t leave belongings unattended in the library or public spaces.
  • Break down packaging from expensive items before recycling.
  • Register valuables for free with Immobilise.
  • In shared accommodation, avoid “tailgating” by letting unknown people follow you inside.

For more advice, contact Campus Support on 0151 794 3252 or visit Liverpool Student Homes. The University also has a dedicated Police Officer who works alongside our Campus Support Services team and can offer practical safety advice.

Avoiding scams

Fraudulent behaviour targeted toward students is an ever-growing risk. However, you can protect yourself.  ]The most common ways students will be targeted is by email or over the phone. Follow these tips to keep yourself safe:

Phone scams

  • Ignore texts asking for personal or bank details.
  • Be cautious of callers claiming to be from HMRC or offering compensation.
  • Don’t share personal details when using public Wi-Fi.

Email scams

  • Hover over links before clicking to check where they lead.
  • Never share bank details, PINs, or passwords via email.
  • Watch for poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or urgent messages like “verify your account.”
  • Don’t open attachments or click links from unknown senders.

Unsure if an email is genuine? Contact the IT Service Desk for help.

Report scams by calling 101 (or 999 in an emergency), or anonymously via CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

Enjoy student life and stay safe

University is one of the most exciting chapters of your life. By staying aware, looking out for your friends, and using the support available, you can enjoy everything Liverpool offers while feeling safe and secure.

For help or advice about student safety at the University of Liverpool, call Campus Support on 0151 794 3252 or speak to our Student Services team if you feel stressed, depressed or vulnerable. There are lots of support services and resources available to help.