Studying abroad can be a daunting thought, whether for a single term or the whole year. You'll likely be presented with a different environment and adapting to it can be difficult. As you settle into life in London, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and get your bearings.
While the area around campus is typically safe, no city is without its issues and therefore you should be aware of the following:
Personal Items:
Firstly, and obviously do not leave your belongings unattended, not even around campus. Do not attract extra attention by flaunting your valuables. Always keep your phone, wallet, passport, etc. hidden in your bag or in protected pockets of your clothing.
The website Immobilise is partnered with the police, which means if a stolen item is retrieved, it can be traced back to you. Phone theft is common in London, particularly phone snatching in the street while the phone is unlocked.
Please also record the details of the electronic serial number of your devices (ESN) and consider insurance. Also take note of the IMEI number of your phone which is a unique identifier; you can obtain this number in your phone settings or by typing *#06# and your phone will display a 15- digit number.
Personal Safety:
Going Out: When you are out, try to stay with friends, and plan your journey home in advance. If the worst happens and you are attacked, yell ‘Fire’, ‘Police’, or ‘Who are you?’. It is often best to yell and run, not fight.
Civilians cannot carry a weapon in public – this includes mace and pepper spray. Ask LSE Security if you are unsure about any objects.
Drinking: Try to drink responsibly, drink water between alcoholic drinks and get some fresh air if you feel unwell. Heavy consumption of alcohol over a short amount of time can seriously impair your judgement so you are more likely to take risks you might not take when you are sober.
Drink spiking is when a mind-altering substance is put into your drink without your knowledge. This can happen to anyone.
Here are a few tips that will help prevent this from happening:
- Do not leave your drink unattended at any time, even while in the toilet.
- Stay away from situations that you do not feel comfortable with.
- Never accept a drink from anyone you do not know or trust.
- Do not share or exchange drinks, or drink leftover drinks.
- If you go on a date with someone you do not know that well, tell a friend or relative where you will be and what time you will be back.
- Try to drink from a bottle rather than a glass, when possible, as it is more difficult to spike a drink in a bottle.
- When you are walking around in a club or bar, keep your hand over the opening of your drink whether it is a glass or a bottle.
Harassment and Violence:
The age of consent in the UK is 16 years old. If you have experienced, or witnessed, any form of violence or harassment and would like to explore both your report and support options, please visit our webpage. These Safe Contacts who will be able to offer further information and support to help you decide if you would like to report your experience to LSE and/or access support services.
You can also report to LSE directly by using the online Report +Support form. This report can be completely anonymous. You can choose to share your name and your contract details if you want someone from LSE to contact you.
Healthcare and non-urgent care:
If you are feeling unwell, call 111. They will be able to advise you on what the next steps are, and make phone GP appointments on your behalf.
The St Philips Medical Centre sits on LSE campus. This is an efficient and convenient service, especially if you are living close to the campus. London School of Economics - St Philips Medical Centre.
Emergencies:
For emergencies call 999 for fire, ambulance, and police. Call 101 for non-emergency police.
Firearms or Weapons Attack:
- Trust your instincts
- If you see or hear something unusual or suspicious, you should report it in confidence
- Be alert but not alarmed
- You can increase your safety by being aware of what to do if you see or hear something that doesn't feel right
- Follow the "Run, Hide, Tell" guidance
If there is a firearms or weapons attack, you can:
- Run to a safe place
- Hide if there is nowhere to go
- Turn your phone to silent and turn off vibrate
- Barricade yourself in if you can
- Call 999 when it's safe to do so
Natural Disasters: in the unlikely event of a severe storm:
- Stay indoors as much as possible
- If you do go out, try not to walk or shelter close to buildings and trees
- Keep away from the sheltered side of boundary walls and fences
For up to date information, please check this page regularly.