Is Sheffield Safe? A Student Safety Guide
Leaving home to start university is exciting, but it can also bring plenty of concerns and questions, particularly around safety and wellbeing. Not only do you have to navigate independent living, but a new city too, and you may worry about feeling secure in unfamiliar surroundings.
If you’re considering one of the Sheffield universities, you’ll probably want to know a bit more about the city itself. A common question is: is Sheffield safe? We’re happy to say that Sheffield is a very student-friendly city, with lots of character and plenty to do and see. Let’s take a look at what makes Sheffield safe and why you can feel confident making the move here.
It’s a friendly and welcoming city
Ask most students what they love about Sheffield and chances are they’ll mention the people. The city has a well-deserved reputation for being warm and welcoming, and it won’t take long for you to experience it for yourself. With a strong cultural identity and community spirit, you’ll come to love the locals’ particular brand of Yorkshire charm. You’ll probably find that people strike up conversation with you when you’re out and about and will be happy to give directions or assistance if you need it. This friendly atmosphere can make a big difference when you’re settling into a new place.
It's one of the safer big cities
According to data analysis by CrimeRate, Sheffield is the second safest major city in the UK. Like any large city, it still experiences issues such as anti-social behaviour, theft and violent crime, so you should take the same precautions you do anywhere to keep yourself safe when out and about: stick to well-lit public areas, be aware of your surroundings and possessions, and try not to walk alone at night.
Sheffield's universities prioritise student safety
Both the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam place a strong emphasis on safety and wellbeing. The campuses and halls are protected by CCTV monitoring, regular patrols and 24-hour security with fully trained staff who can help you should you need it.
The University of Sheffield also uses the SafeZone app to keep students informed of any major incidents or safety concerns. You can use it to contact security at any time, whether for an emergency or medical assistance.
Both universities run a safe taxi scheme with Veezu. If you find yourself without enough money for a taxi home, you can leave your student union card with the driver and pay the fare later at the students’ union. The University of Sheffield also runs a free minibus service during late-night events at the union.
There are plenty of places to socialise
One of the best things about Sheffield is its buzzing social scene. Whether you’re into live music, pubs or clubs, you’ll find plenty of places to keep you entertained.
If you’re wondering if Sheffield is safe at night, West Street is the city’s main strip of bars and clubs, and can get pretty rowdy, so it’s wise to exercise a bit more caution here. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to the bars and pubs around Kelham Island and Sidney Street. FORGE Warehouse and Electric Studios are great independent venues that are popular with students and locals alike.
Students’ unions also offer a safe and welcoming environment for fun nights out. They have trained welfare staff and dedicated wellbeing spaces. The University of Sheffield also has an app that helps you find your friends on nights out at the union. Whenever you’re out and wherever you’re off to, make sure to always keep an eye on each other and leave together.
Your accommodation is safe and secure
A big part of what makes Sheffield safe for students is where you live. After all, your accommodation is where you’ll spend most of your time outside lectures, so it should be somewhere you feel comfortable and secure.
At true student Sheffield, we take your safety and wellbeing seriously. Our accommodation is well-lit and is protected by keycard access, CCTV cameras and 24-hour security. There’s somewhere secure to store your bikes and get your parcels delivered too.
If you have any issues at all, just speak to our friendly reception team. We have members of staff trained in first aid and mental health support, meaning there’s always someone on hand to help should you need it.
Feel happy and safe at true student Sheffield
Join the thousands of happy Sheffield students in a city that offers a great university experience. If Sheffield sounds like the right fit for you, take a look at our luxury student accommodation. With spacious rooms, welcoming social areas, regular events and dedicated support whenever you need it, you’ll feel safe, supported and settled from day one.
For more information or to book a viewing: true student Sheffield