Keeping safe

As you move towards becoming an adult you will naturally have more choice about the things you do and where you go. This might include socialising in spaces shared with adults and attending events such as parties, concerts and festivals, without supervision from a parent or carer. You will also have more freedom around travelling alone and the distance you can be away from home.

It is important you understand how to keep yourself safe when out at new or crowded places and at night.

It will be helpful for to know the risks around certain situations and take steps to protect yourself and this way you will be able to enjoy your social activities and new found independence safely.

Also remember the importance of keeping safe online by protecting your identity and personal information and being aware of the law around sharing intimate images (sexting).

Remember criminals often target people online for financial scams or to exploit them, do not share any details of you location with people you have met online.

Communicate - make sure you tell someone where you are going and agree a time frame for keeping in touch and getting in. Make clear plans with friends and stay together, don’t let anyone in your group get left alone and take shared responsibility for staying safe. Make sure your mobile phone is charged or take a power pack with you.

Travel - plan ahead, check bus and train schedules ahead of your plans, use a map or location app to understand where you will be going and directions. Have a back-up plan, if your travel plans fail (this could be an alternative method of transport, or an agreement with a parent/carer about how you would manage this e.g. being picked up, staying at a friends or taxi services. If you are planning to travel abroad, make sure you are familiar with the local area, rules, regulations, laws and customs of the country to plan to visit.

Be aware! Whilst most of your social activities will be fun and problem free, it is important to bear in mind that busy, crowded, unfamiliar places can bring potential threats. Things such as crime, pickpocketing, theft and robbery can happen more easily. Keep your belongings safe, valuables out of sight and be mindful of people around you. Try to keep in areas with good street lighting and avoid being in isolated areas.

Take extra care around railways, busy roads, rivers and canals and don’t accept lifts from people you don’t know or people who have consumed alcohol or drugs. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and that you can protect yourself from sun, rain or cold.

Alcohol and drugs - you might be more likely to be exposed to substance use in some social situations, particularly if you are mixing in spaces intended for adults. Follow the link to our page on substance use for more information about the law and substances, the associated dangers and how to keep safe. Be aware of the dangers of drink spiking - more information in the links below.

Help in an emergency - agree in advance who you will contact if you need help in a situation. Remember that in and emergency you should 999 for emergency services who will be able to direct the appropriate help towards you.