Wednesday 29-09-2021 - 17:00

We want everyone to have a fun and safe time during the Welcome period in Bristol and beyond.

It's been a long time since we've all been able to go out on normal nights out, and for many new students, this might be your first experience of being out in a new city.

We know that many students choose to drink alcohol and use drugs, so it’s really important that you have the tools and knowledge to make that decision as safely as possible, especially after such an unusual year.  

Our officers have put together an Instagram highlight of some of the tips you can follow.

 

Here are some of our practical tips on how to stay safe while celebrating the start of your uni year:

 

Seek Support 

If you’d like advice or support around drugs or alcohol, Bristol SU has a partnership with The Drop which allows all students to receive free confidential support. To book an online or in-person session with The Drop you can call 0117 987 6000 or email info@bdp.org.uk. The Drop also offer free drugs reagent test kits for those who need them. 

If you need wellbeing and mental health support, please use the University's Request Support option through the Wellbeing Service. You can request support for yourself, or for a friend, and someone from the university will be in touch.

 

Know your limits 

We've all got out of the habit of going out to nightclubs and pubs regularly. If you choose to use drugs or alcohol be cautious – make sure you understand what you are taking, start with a small amount, and don't mix different substances. If you'd like to know more about different types of drugs or alcohol, take a look at The Drop, The Loop, or Talk To Frank.

 

Look after each other 

Stick together when out and about in Bristol, and check in with each other regularly to make sure you’re all ok. If one of your group is feeling unwell, take that as a sign to end your night out and head home together.

 

Look after your drink 

Keep an eye on your drink at all times and don't accept an unsealed drink, or a drink from someone you don't trust. Sadly drink spiking does happen so make sure you're looking after anything you might be drinking when you're out. If you suspect your drink has been tampered with, don't drink it. 

 

Make a Plan

Before heading out, make a plan with your friends about how you'll get home. It's a new city and it can be easy to get lost or split up from your group. Decide together how you'll be getting home and try not to leave anyone behind! We have a Safer Taxi Scheme in partnership with VCars if you get stuck on a night out, even if you don't have the money for a fare. By phoning 01179 262626, quoting either ‘Bristol University Safe Taxi Scheme and having a valid student card as proof of ID, a vehicle will be sent to you as a matter of priority. 

 

Respect our Neighbours 

If you’re out celebrating the start of the uni year, please remember that others around you won't be quite so excited! One of the things that makes Bristol so great is that our campus and student accommodation is spread across the city. This does mean though that you should always be mindful of not disturbing other Bristol residents around you. 

It’s a really simple message from us: keep the noise down, and tidy up after yourself. 

 

Safe and Healthy Sex

We'll be providing SHAG bags in university halls this year. These Sexual Health And Guidance bags will contain contraceptives, STI self-testing kits, and advice and guidance on how to lead a safe and healthy sex life. And remember, if it's not an enthusiastic yes, it's a no. 

 

Coronavirus 

The pandemic isn’t over yet. We’re still seeing high case levels across Bristol. While we know it’s tempting to prioritise your fun this September, please remember to keep to the coronavirus guidance while doing so: get tested at least twice a week, wear a mask indoors, follow self-isolation guidance, wash your hands regularly and get a vaccine whenever you're offered one! We’re so close to this being over, let’s work together to keep our city open this year! 

 

Useful Resources

• Bristol SU Advice and Support - Drugs including Alcohol
• Bristol SU Advice and Support - Crime (including Sexual harassment and violence)
• Bristol SU Advice and Support - Wellbeing
• drinkaware.co.uk - Drink Spiking