'Be Less Obvious' - Safety Awareness for Young People

Robberies can happen anywhere, including on the way to school, home, the shops or while hanging out with friends.

Be aware if someone:

• Is following you or watching you closely
• Asks to borrow your phone and won’t take no for an answer
• Makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe
• Tries to surround you with a group
• Keeps watching or demands your belongings
• Threatens or intimidates you
• Tries to distract you while someone else approaches

Trust your instincts. If it doesn’t feel right, leave the area.

When You’re Out:

• Walk with friends where possible & get home safely
• Stay in busy, well-lit areas & valuables out of sight
• Avoid short-cuts through isolated areas
• Avoid walking while focused on your phone

When Using Your Phone:

• Don’t leave your phone on display, keep one ear free if using headphones
• Be careful taking phones out near roads, stations, bus stops

When Travelling:

• Plan your route & stay close to other people
• Let someone know where you’re going

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, move to a safe place.

Remember, your safety is more important than your belongings:

• Stay calm, do not fight back or put yourself at risk
• Try to remember what the person looked like
• Get to a safe place straight away
• Tell a trusted adult, youth worker, teacher or parent
• Call 999 and report it to the Police

Most robberies involve:

• Mobile phones, AirPods & headphones
• Watches & jewellery
• Cash & bank cards
• Bikes & scooters