Attending university is a significant and exciting step in most people's lives.

It may be the first time you've lived away from home and had to take care of yourself. You'll probably be making a new group of friends, who may stay with you for the rest of your life. You might pick up new hobbies or habits, discover new interests and take the first steps in your career.

It's also around this time that you begin to be treated as an adult by society. You'll have more choice about what you do and who you'll be than ever before. But be aware that, as an adult, you are responsible for yourself and your actions. Here are some of the things you should consider to get the most out of your time at university, whilst staying safe and secure.

Personal safety

Student life doesn't have to revolve around alcohol, you can still have an active, hangover-free social life whilst at university. But if you do decide to take part in drinking, please so do responsibly and make sure you know your limits.

Eating plenty before drinking will not only line your stomach, but it can even rid the effects of the next morning's hangover. Don't let drinking games, peer pressure or social media fads convince you to put yourself at risk. Look out for each other and make sure everyone gets home safely.

Make use of personal safety apps - adding a few mobile safety applications to your phone or device will give you an extra layer of protection.

Avoid drinks that you have not seen being poured and never leave a drink unattended. If you or a friend start to feel unusually drunk or unwell, find friends that you trust, get to a safe place and seek immediate medical help.

Follow our party safely tips and always plan your journey home. Respect your neighbours on the way home, you are part of the local community while you're here, and your actions reflect on yourself and the University. Be aware of alcohol and drug's effect on a person's capacity for sexual consent, and never violate a person's trust when they are vulnerable.

If you experience or witness an incident of concern, Report + Support is an online platform where inappropriate behaviour can be reported with the knowledge that it will be taken seriously. You don’t have to give your name and you will be able to access a wide range of support articles.

Sexual health and consent

Everyone arrives at university with different experiences and ideas about sex. If you've never thought about or discussed sexual consent before then you're not alone. Sexual consent means a person willingly agrees to have sex or engage in sexual activity - and they are free and able to make their own decision. Any sexual contact without consent is illegal and can have serious consequences, take time to understand sexual consent and how it can be given and/or withdrawn.

Protect yourself from scams

Scammers will look to use a variety of methods to try and get your personal information. It is important you know how to spot signs of a scam and the most effective methods to protect yourself.

Action Fraud have lots of resources available for you to familiarise yourself with what scams to look out for and how to report them if you’re approached. For advice you can follow to keep yourself safe as a student online, visit Staying Safe Online - Scams.

Getting support

If you become unwell, registering with USW Health Service when you arrive at University will enable you to access health advice and support.

Our Support Services are dedicated to making sure that every student gets the support they need. If you're unsure where to start, the Advice Zone offers a welcoming first point of contact.