Safety Advice For International Students – Study in London
In comparison to other global capitals, London is a safe city as long as you are alert and conscious of your environment. This piece of writing looks at some points on the topic of safety whilst you study in London.
As far as physical safety is concerned, the majority of areas in London are perfectly safe during the day, provided that you are moderately sensible. It should be mentioned however that there may be a higher likelihood of encountering incidents of crime at night in some districts of London such as Wood Green, Harlesden, and Thamesmead where “street sense” is more important.
The London Mayor and Greater London Authority maintain “Crime and Community Safety” at the top of their agenda, as a way of keeping all regions of London safe for all, and has resulted in a number of neighbourhood safety campaigns. The London Metropolitan police have recently released a crime map of London (maps.met.police.uk) which indicates levels and types of reported crime in any given area of London. If you are looking for accommodation whilst you study in London, this map may be a beneficial way to determine safety levels in a particular area before you arrive.
Above all, your safety is most important so it is certainly worth bearing in mind some pre-emptive measures until you become more familiar as a resident studying in London:
Safe Keeping of Personal Property
In your new home where you study in London, it is advisable to keep valuables away from public view and always lock doors and windows behind you when going out.
Always keep back up copies of original documents such as your passport, including visa details, entry clearance and immigration stamps separately from originals in a safe place.
do not leave any belongings outside where you live as they are likely to be taken instantly. Some London bike thieves can operate quickly even when a bike is locked to a street railing for a short amount of time, they will find a way to take seats, and wheels.
Plan your Route
Most International, and even national, students who are new to study in London may be apprehensive when travelling on the London Transport Network. However there are resources online such as the “Travel for London” (TFL) website which can greatly help you in getting where you need to go. It is highly recommended to plot and print out your journey using this practical tool before going anywhere in London and even more so before a night out.
Keep Bags Zipped
Most reported petty theft or bag snatching incidents in London predominantly occur outside tube stations, close to cash machines and in crowded shopping malls, so be sure to keep bags zipped and a close watch on any personal items you are carrying such as a mobile phone or laptop when using the transport system. It is more sensible to keep credit or debit cards and a limit of £50 of cash in your wallet. Carrying huge amounts of cash around with you is neither advisable or necessary, especially if you are here to study in London.
As a rule, safety is not a cause for concern when you live and study in London if you simply apply a bit of common sense and by being alert in your surroundings
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