Your safety
Do not become a victim. Avoid:
- Anything that limits your ability to see or hear trouble, such as wearing hoods, listening to music through earphones or talking on a mobile.
- Walking in quiet, deserted areas such as underpasses, alleyways, parks, commons and empty wasteland.
- Walking in a hesitant way and looking unsure of where you are going.
- Appearing drunk or in any way out of control.
- Having cash or valuables on show.
Personal safety tips
If you feel uncomfortable walking to your accommodation at night ask the security staff based at the Glenburnie Entrance of Springfield Hospital to escort you back to the Diamond Estate. They will be happy to undertake this unless they are dealing with an emergency or have reduced numbers during their regular nightly site inspections.
- Carry a personal alarm.
- Make use of 'preferred routes'- the safest path to your destination.
- Always try to walk in well lit areas in the middle of the pavement, especially when going around corners.
- Walk against the flow of the traffic to avoid kerb crawlers.
- Look confident. Walk with your head up and with energy.
- Keep your hand free.
- Have your mobile ready for use.
- Have your keys ready when approaching home so you don't spend time on the doorstep fumbling in your bag.
- Make it difficult for anyone to conceal themselves near the entrance to your home by cutting hedges well back, or installing outside lighting.
- Wear appropriate clothing.
- If you decide to take a cab home, pre-book a car through a licensed taxi office and ensure the car you ordered is the one you get into.
- Know the car details and check the driver knows what name it was booked under. Sit in the back and carry an alarm.
- If someone attempts to snatch your bag or phone, let them have it. You are risking personal injury if you resist.
Mental Health Crisis Line
Patient advice and liaison service
Finding a service
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Mental Health Support Line
Childline
Samaritans