Keeping safe tips for young people

Here's some helpful advice for when you are out and about, or if you go along to a new club, activity or project for the first time.

For more useful tips about keeping safe, outside or online go to The Source website, which provides information, help and advice on issues that matter tor young people in Suffolk.

General advice and help

  • Let an adult you trust know where you are going and when you will return. If your plans change, try to ring or text someone to tell them what time you’ll be home.
  • Remember you can call 100 from a phone box to reverse the charges. And most payphones and mobiles will let you dial 999 even if you have no money or credit.
  • Stick to streets that you know, or keep to busy areas. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, car parks or alleys.
  • If you're on a bus on your own, pick a seat downstairs near the driver. On a train, find an open carriage with lots of people in it.
  • Be streetwise. Keep valuables out of sight. Cash, jewellery, mobiles and MP3 players are all tempting targets.

Trying something different?

If you're going along to a new club or activity, then you may prefer to make a visit beforehand with a friend or trusted adult, so that you can meet those in charge and see what it's all about. You could also try to speak to other people who've already been there and tried it.

Suggestions for questions to ask:

  1. Who runs the club, activity or service?  Is it part of a larger organisation such as Scouts or is it locally organised?
  2. Do the staff and volunteers have Criminal Records Bureau checks to make sure they can work safely with children and young people? 
  3. How many workers or volunteers do you they have at the activity?
  4. Can young people get involved in the running of the club or activity?
  5. Do you ask for parents’ or carers' written permission before taking children and young people on outside visits, adventure activities and trips?
  6. If I'm not happy about something at the club who would I talk to?

On each Young InfoLink record you will see a person named as the contact for each club, activity or service. So if you cannot visit, then why not telephone or send a text. They should be able to give you the answers!