Supporting Women with Care and Confidence

Staying safe on our streets:

* Notice what is happening around you by avoiding phone use, headphones and distractions.
* Trust your instincts if it feels 'off', move to safety to avoid dangerous situations or people. 
* Use the buddy system, walk with other groups. 
* Stay in well-lit, populated areas, and plan your routes in advance to avoid looking confused or lost. 
* Carry a personal alarm or whistle, share your location with a friend (Walk Safe App).
* Learn self defence to feel empowered and prepared.

What does 'grooming' mean?

Grooming is when someone tries to trick a young person into trusting them so they can hurt or take advantage of them.

Warning signs:

* They act like a cool friend, mentor or boyfriend/girlfriend. 
* They give you money or presents. 
* They tell you not to talk to your family or friends.
* They make rude jokes or send inappropriate pictures.
* They ask you to do small favours that get bigger.

This shouldn't happen. If an older person messages you privately and is acting too friendly:

* Stop talking to anyone who makes you feel wierd or unsafe.
* Tell a trusted adult- like a parent,  teacher or school counsellor.
* Report them on the app or game.
* Save messages or pictures if they are inappropriate.
* Call Childline 0800 1111 or a support group,  they are there to help.