IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OF CRIME

If you have been the victim of a crime, you should contact the Police - that's what they are there for. In an emergency dial 999 (minicom 669999), otherwise phone Fulford Road Police Station. In an emergency, dialing 112 from a mobile allows them to pinpoint your location quicker.

Victim Support - offer emotional support and practical help to all victims of crime including information on police and court procedures, compensation and insurance. They can visit you at home, or you can make an appointment to see them at their office. The service is free and confidential. If you become a witness and have to give evidence in court you will also be contacted by the Witness Service.

If you have been the victim of a rape or sexual assault

See abuse and rape in the relationships section.

Keeping Safe... on the streets:

  • When you are going out late, arrange a lift or taxi before you go. Make sure someone knows when you are expected back
  • Don't hitch-hike or take lifts from someone you've only just met
  • Avoid lonely bus stops, especially after dark
  • If you have to walk at night, keep to well lit streets. Walk on the side that faces the traffic. If you think you are being followed, head for the nearest place with people - e.g. a pub or shop
  • Carry your keys in your pocket, in case your bag is stolen
  • The most important thing is your safety. If someone tries to grab your bag, let it go. If someone tries to attack you, run away if you can. Don't stay to face up to them
  • Get a screech alarm (DIY shops sell them), or take up self-defence classes
  • If you drive, keep your car in good condition, with enough petrol. Don't pick up hitch-hikers

Keeping safe... in the home:

  • Think about the security of your home. Fit window locks and a proper mortice lock on the front door, not just a Yale-type lock. If you live in rented accommodation, talk to your landlord if you don't think the security is good enough
  • When you move into a new property, have a new lock put on the front door or your room door - you don't know who has lived there in the past and still holds keys. Make sure you consult your landlord before doing this
  • Leave a light on when you go out at night, and lock doors and windows - even if you are just going to the shops
  • Never leave a key hidden outside (someone may see you hide it) - and especially not somewhere obvious e.g. on a string behind the door or under the mat
  • Ask to see an ID card when officials call. Phone their local office to check if you are in doubt. If strangers call for someone else you live with, make them wait outside while you fetch them
  • If you think someone has broken in during the night, switch on a light and make some noise. If you are on your own, pretend there is someone there and call to them. Never go to confront an intruder. Phone the police as soon as you can
  • Put expensive possessions out of sight from windows. Get a DIY kit to mark them with your postcode. Get a decent D-type lock for your bike and lock it to something fixed

Keeping Safe... online

For more information about keeping safe online, go to the chat danger website. Although aimed at younger teen users, it has useful safety tips on privacy, sharing information and images online, using mobiles and reporting problems - for example if you think someone is not who they say they are online.