It’s no secret that, like all big cities, London can be a crime hotspot. And although anyone can fall victim to crimes like theft, there are a few steps you can take to help minimise this risk. 

Personal belongings 

Even while on a UAL campus, never leave your stuff unattended. This is one of the easiest ways that thieves can target your personal belongings. 

This especially goes for valuable, personal, or sentimental items, as well as your UAL student ID card. 

Phone theft 

Phone thefts happen commonly in most major cities, including in London. Thieves can target anyone, but often they target distracted or lost people looking at their phones by the side of the road or on public transport platforms. 

Phone straps and holders can be helpful, but the best way to prevent this is to minimise your phone usage in public wherever you can. 

Money Saving Expert has some extra tips on preventing phone theft and its impacts on your safety and security. 

And familiarise yourself with UAL’s tips on protecting your valuables. 

Bicycle lanes 

A lot of our campuses have cycle lanes nearby. Don’t cross cycle lanes without looking, don’t obstruct them, and don’t walk along them. 

Using and storing your bike 

First things first: get a good-quality helmet and stay alert while cycling. London’s roads are busy and can be dangerous, so it’s always a good idea to make sure you’re staying safety-conscious. 

Make sure you also invest in a padlock or bike lock if you plan to store your bike outside, and also ensure that you store your bike responsibly. Don’t block paths and pavements, as this can make it even more difficult for disabled people to get around. 

Familiarise yourself with bike storage options at UAL campuses: all of our campuses have inside bike storage that you’re welcome to use. 

And make sure you get insurance, too, so you can replace your bike if it’s stolen or damaged, without breaking the bank. 

UAL has more tips on cycle safety in London, including lists of bike parking spaces available at each campus and halls of residence. 

Student ID card 

Always remember to bring your Student ID card with you when coming to any UAL campus. No tailgating or sharing of IDs is allowed to make sure that UAL can keep all of its students safe on campus. 

If you’ve forgotten your ID, speak to the reception or estates team at your campus, as they may be able to offer you a temporary guest pass to access the building. 

In case of emergency... 

Arts SU and UAL are not emergency services, and will not be able to help you urgently if you are in an emergency. Always call 999 and ask for the appropriate emergency service. 

Counselling and support are available for free from UAL. 

To report racism, bullying, harassment, or sexual violence, use UAL’s Tell Someone tool. This tool can also help you to access support. 

We've previously shared information on coping with crime at UAL, too.