For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Julie Susel and I am the University police officer, based out of Loddon Valley Police Station. I wanted to write a quick message to you about a couple of topics that you might have experienced, and let you know how I can help.

Personal safety – I have in the past dealt with reports of students being followed back to Halls or the University campus, by individuals who have tried to start an unwanted conversation or have been overly assertive in their approach. This is unacceptable behaviour which no one should have to put up with.

If this has happened to you, you’ll probably remember the negative feeling of this unwanted attention. If you ever find yourself in this type of situation, I would encourage you to listen to your instincts, move to safety, and contact someone who can help. While no one should have to experience this, there are some helpful tips and advice which are helpful to remember:

• The University security team have a chaperone service, which is available 24/7.
• Put the security team phone number into your phone in case of emergency 0118 378 6300.

Being blackmailed over personal images – This crime often gets called ‘sextortion’ or ‘revenge porn.’ We are seeing an increase in people being blackmailed after sending personal photos of themselves to people they have not met in person. During lockdown it has been difficult to socialise and develop relationships, but unless you have spent time with a person and have mutual respect, there is every likelihood that you are sending a photograph of yourself to a fraudster, who will blackmail you and may share your photograph on social media. Support is available, and if you are experiencing this please report it to us so we can help.

I have also given a box of personal safety alarms to the university’s Student Welfare and Security teams, so please contact them if you would like one. We have found these to be an effective deterrent, and they are completely free.

You can speak to the Student Welfare Team, your RUSU officers, or myself at Thames Valley Police, via the welfare or security teams. Whatever you are going through, it is important to remember you are not alone. Please take care, look after each other and if in doubt – report it!