When you’re out and about, there are lots of things you can do to keep safe and feel more confident.  Make sure your parents or carers know where you are, and try to travel with friends, especially at night.

Stick to well-lit routes and travel with others if you can. Make calls on your mobile in a private place if you can – don’t keep it in full view. Remember, if you are wearing an iPod or mp3 player you might not notice what’s going on around you and you might not hear someone approaching. 

Just be aware and trust your instincts*, as they are often right. And, if a situation doesn’t feel right or you feel uncomfortable, walk away.

You shouldn't let these things stop you going out, but if you know how to stay safe you'll feel a lot more confident.

Basic rules to help you stay safe

• At night don’t walk around or go on buses and trains alone.
• Stick to footpaths and well-lit areas. Never take a short cut through a dark alleyway.
• Act confidently, even if you don’t feel it.
• If you wear lots of jewellery cover it up with clothes.
• Let your parents/carers know where you are all the time.
• If you think someone’s following you, cross to the other side of the road and keep walking. If you still think they’re following you, head for a well-lit area where there are lots of people. Always ask for help if you need it.

What to do if you’re mugged

• Scream and shout but hand over whatever you’re asked for. It’s better to run off and be safe than fight and end up hurt.
• Tell your parents or carers and the police.

Getting support

Hackney Young People Affected by Crime (HYPAC) provides support to children, young people and their families in Hackney who have been victims of crime. The service is free to all young people aged up to the age of 18.

Call: 020 3222 5600

Other support

www.shadowcs.co.uk

www.met.police.uk/youngpeople/

www.crimestoppers-uk.org  0800 555 111