Guild release list of helpful tips to keep students safe following attacks

Following further attacks in Selly Oak this weekend, the Guild’s housing officer has released another statement urging students to “remain vigilant” as crime continues to sweep Selly Oak.

Housing and Community Officer Roberto Sorrentino assured students the police are increasing their presence in Selly alongside Community Wardens.

They’re carrying out patrols in the area every day until the early hours ensuring that students are safe.

Sorrentino posted the following advice: “I would like remind students to remain vigilant and aware of their surrounding in Selly Oak.

“When walking around, try to walk in numbers, keep valuables out of sight.

“If you feel you are being followed, cross the road and if they cross with you, try to make your way towards a busy public area.

“Alternatively, you can get a taxi.”

For more tips on how to stay safe in Selly – take a look at the Community Wardens’ Safer Self tips here.

Sorrentino continued: “Selly Oak is our home, and we should not feel unsafe – in the coming days, we must work together to ensure that those who are intimidating our students are brought to the attention of the police.

“If you spot anything suspicious, please call 101 in a non-emergency and 999 in an emergency.

“I’ve had a meeting with the West Midlands Police and they have assured me that they are still increasing patrols.

“I’m also looking at other unions’ and university’s schemes that they implement in their student ‘villages’ to see what we can imitate here.”

But not everyone is impressed by the efforts being made by the Guild and West Midlands Police.

Eve Kaye, a third year Psychology student, said: “The advice comes across a bit patronising, and by implying that there’s loads of steps to be taken when everyone is already doing what they can is victim blaming!

“It gets dark so early and the attacks seem to be happening eearlier every time, am I supposed to get a taxi back at four o’clock when my lectures end?

“I haven’t noticed more police patrols in the area, driving through Selly Oak on Saturday I didn’t see any police even though fab was on!”