Staying Secure in Salford: A Student Safety Guide

Leaving home to study in Salford? Along with all the excitement, it’s natural to feel a bit nervous too. This is probably the first time you’ve lived away from home, and you’re moving to a new city you likely don’t know much about.

So, you’ll no doubt have some questions and concerns. How will you find your way around? Is Salford a safe place to live? What if you need help with something? That’s why we’ve put together our handy student safety guide to help you feel secure in Salford and confident about making the move here. Keep reading to find out our top tips on staying safe in Salford.

Download the SafeZone App

It’s good to know that The University of Salford puts your safety and wellbeing as a top priority. The security team is based in the Maxwell Building in the Peel Park Campus. Security officers patrol all campuses and are available 24/7.

One of the first things you should do when you arrive at Salford is download the university’s free SafeZone app. It enables you to directly contact campus security, request first aid or emergency support, and even check in with someone when you’re studying late or alone.

Plan your journey home before heading out

One of the best things about living in Salford is access to two amazing cities and everything they offer. But whatever fun you’ve got planned, whether it’s meeting for drinks in Salford Quays or heading into Manchester, work out how you’ll get home before you leave. Check the times of the last bus, train or tram and make sure you head out with a fully charged phone and enough money for a taxi should you need it.

Be aware of your surroundings

Getting to know your way around is part of settling into student life. Familiarise yourself with the routes between your accommodation, uni buildings and transport stops during daylight hours. At night, stick to busy, well-lit paths rather than quieter shortcuts. Try to travel home with someone if you can, but if not, send your flatmates a message to let them know when to expect you back. 

If you’re walking home alone and feel a little nervous, you can call Strut Safe on 0333 335 0026. A volunteer will ask for your name and location and then keep you company over the phone until you arrive safely at your door.

Look out for each other on nights out

Manchester nightlife is pretty legendary, and you’re sure to want to experience everything it has to offer. It’s easy to feel safer in a big group, but whether you’re just having a few drinks in the Students’ Union or clubbing in Manchester, you’ll need to exercise the same level of caution: stay together, look after each other and leave with a friend.

It’s also important to be aware of the dangers of drink spiking. Don’t leave your drink unattended and only accept drinks from people you know and trust. Atmosphere (the Students’ Union bar) and other venues throughout the city have free drink covers available, so feel free to ask for them.

Choose accommodation that prioritises student safety

Your student accommodation is where you’ll be spending the majority of your free time, and at true student Salford, we want you to feel as comfortable and secure as you do at home. 

Our accommodation is well-lit, with keycard access, CCTV cameras and 24-hour security. Not only that, there’s somewhere secure for your deliveries, and premium contents insurance is included in your monthly payments.

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. If you have any issues at all, you can just speak to our friendly reception team.

Keep an eye on your belongings

Don’t make it easy for thieves to target your stuff. Lock your accommodation’s doors and windows when you go out, and don’t leave your laptop or phone unattended when you pop away from your study spot. 

If you’re planning on cycling to university, make use of the secure bike shelters at the three campuses. (If you’re staying at true student Salford, we offer secure bike storage too!)

Feel right at home at true student Salford

Having somewhere you feel comfortable and supported will make the transition into uni life so much easier. At true student Salford, our spacious en-suite rooms are welcoming places to return to after a long day at uni or a night out. Not only that, but our friendly team is always on hand to help should you need them, while our shared social spaces and regular events give you lots of opportunities to make connections.

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