Rated amongst the safest places to live in the UK, Liverpool is a popular destination for both students and professionals. It’s a well-lit, compact city offering lots of things to do and places to see from day to night.
Adding to that, Liverpool has held a Purple Flag status since 2010 due to its safe nightlife throughout the whole Liverpool City Region. But what does this mean?
The Purple Flag is an accreditation process run by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM) that assesses:
⚫︎ Crime rates
⚫︎ Policing
⚫︎ Hygiene standards
⚫︎ Medical facilities
⚫︎ The range of visitor attractions
⚫︎ Initiatives on drink spiking
⚫︎ The Ask for Angela safety scheme
Being awarded the Purple Flag means that Liverpool is recognised as a safe destination and has facilities and services that students can rely on to keep them safe. That said, it’s always a good idea to take steps that will keep you safe as a university student. These include:
Liverpool has a variety of popular student-friendly neighbourhoods located close to university campuses, including Liverpool City Centre, Kensington, Smithdown Road and the Baltic Triangle.
As a student in Liverpool, stick to well-lit, busy roads at night and avoid cutting through dark parks or alleyways – sometimes it’s better to take the long route!
Liverpool’s universities take student safety very seriously and have 24/7 security patrols, emergency contact numbers, and CCTV throughout. Make sure you save your uni’s security number in your phone and know where the nearest help points are on campus.
You’ll also find security professionals in public spaces, at events and in student-heavy areas who are there to make sure everything is under control.
Even in familiar areas, walking alone at night isn't always the safest option. If you need to get home late, walk with friends or use public transport if possible.
If you are going to use a taxi service, like Alpha Taxi, Delta Taxi or Uber, make sure the taxi is Liverpool-licensed (this can be found on the app or vehicle badge).
Staying alert is essential, no matter where you are or the time of day. Make sure to keep an eye on your surroundings, especially at bus stops, train stations, or student nightlife areas. If something feels off, seek help and don’t ignore your instincts.
Like any major city, pickpocketing can happen in Liverpool. To avoid this, keep your phone, wallet, headphones, and any other valuables zipped up or close to your body in a cross-body bag or secure pocket.
Try not, where possible, to leave your possessions unattended and avoid flashing expensive items in public.
If you're living in halls or shared accommodation, treat it like your own space. Lock your bedroom door, don’t prop open entrances, and avoid letting strangers into the building. If there’s a keypad or intercom system, keep the code private to avoid trespassers.
Liverpool has a reliable bus and train transportation network, which many students rely on. While it’s generally safe, avoid falling asleep on late-night services and sit near the driver or other passengers. If you do happen to feel unsafe, let a member of staff know, as they’re trained to help you.
Liverpool’s nightlife for students is legendary and favoured throughout the UK, but it’s easy to get carried away. When drinking alcohol, make sure to pace yourself, never leave your drinks unattended, and don’t accept drinks from strangers. If you go out as a group, stick with each other and never leave anyone behind.
If you’re ever in a situation where you feel unsafe, draw attention to yourself confidently. Walk into a nearby shop, ask a staff member for help, or call the police if needed. Most people in Liverpool are friendly and helpful and won't hesitate to step in if you ask.
Feeling safe is also about feeling connected. Get involved in student societies, volunteer events, or local meetups and running clubs. The more people you know in Liverpool, the more supported and confident you'll feel in your daily life as a student.
When relocating to Liverpool as a student, it’s important to know who to call in the event of an emergency. Here are the numbers for important emergency services in Liverpool:
Liverpool is a brilliant city to be in as a student. It’s full of energy, culture, and friendliness and is a safe place for you to build your independence. Like any big city, it comes with its risks, which can be significantly reduced by staying aware, vigilant and trusting your gut.
Enjoy the wonders that Merseyside has to offer and secure safe accommodation in Liverpool with Stockton Students today! For more information or queries, contact our dedicated team by email at info@stocktonstudents.co.uk or via telephone at 03301 359065.
Want to know more about Liverpool? Read our guide covering 10 Reasons Why Liverpool Is the UK’s Best Student City.
