Navigating crowds and audiences: How to stay safe in Welcome Week

With Welcome Week beginning in a matter of days, Warwick’s nightlife is preparing to come to life again and is bound to attract large crowds. Let’s dive into the university’s measures and other tips to ensure a safe night out.  

1. SU Cup Covers

In June, the SU announced the Copper Rooms will offer cup covers for a trial period to tackle growing concerns over drink spiking. The move highlights the SU’s commitment to addressing real student anxieties surrounding this ‘national issue’ and illustrates that action must be taken.  

So what makes these drink covers effective? Their unique design makes drinks easily identifiable and the ‘one cover per drink’ policy ensures your drink is always covered. In off-campus venues, consider purchasing your own or experimenting with other anti-spiking products. Nonetheless, attentiveness is always key: keep drinks supervised and stop drinking if your beverage looks or tastes different to normal. 

2. Birmingham Party Bus

Many freshers look forward to visiting Birmingham for a night out, but if getting back to campus is a concern, consider taking the Birmingham Party Bus! It runs between Warwick University Interchange and Birmingham Broad Street, usually departing from campus at 10:30pm and leaving Birmingham at 3:45am. Not only does it make for a safe, reliable mode of transport, but the event also comes with exclusive perks like free entry into clubs and bars before midnight. If a trip to Birmingham, stress-free return and extra perks sounds appealing, head to the SU website to find out more! 

3. SafeZone App

Do you know what to do if you need support on campus? The university has made contact with the Community Safety team through SafeZone. The app offers 24/7 contact, first aid help, and emergency and non-emergency support. While you may never need to use the app, the reassurance of quick access to assistance makes it worth downloading! However, remaining vigilant especially off campus is still important, and make sure to stick with your friends in crowded areas.