Personal Robbery Safety Campaign - 2024

Cleveland Police is launching a campaign to highlight the issue of robbery and raise awareness of personal safety advice which could help protect members of the public.

Whilst Cleveland Police is doing everything possible to tackle offenders and bring them to justice, we also want to make people aware of the below personal safety advice which may help reduce the number of victims who are targeted in robberies.

For the next two weeks, digital ads will appear around Middlesbrough, with a QR code linking to the below advice (which is also included in the leaflet linked at the bottom of this page). 

For more information on this campaign, please read the full press release here:
Personal Robbery Safety Campaign Launches | Cleveland Police

Out and about

• If you have to use a cash machine make sure it is well lit and report any suspicious activity.
• Be cautious of strangers and if in doubt, cancel the transaction and use another machine.
• Don't wear a lot of jewellery, no matter how inexpensive, a potential thief might not be able to see the difference.
• Carry your bag close to your body, if possible with the opening towards you.
• Try to buy bags with a zip top. 
• Don't be flash with your cash or mobile phones. Keep their use discreet and put them away after use.
• Have your keys at hand and easily accessible.
• Consider carrying a personal attack alarm.
• Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged in case of emergency

In the car

• Ensure your car is kept in good condition and have plenty of fuel for your journey.
• Keep doors locked and keep valuables out of sight.
• Park in well lit or busy areas and if possible use car parks that are accredited by the police Safer
• Parking Scheme that display Park Mark signs.
• Don't give lifts or accept lifts from strangers.
• Don't drink and drive, or use drugs and drive.
• Don't use a mobile phone when you are driving.

By taxi

• Keep the number of a reputable taxi firm with you and always prebook taxis from reputable licensed companies.
• Avoid taxis touting for business.
• Sit behind the driver and stay aware.
• If you feel uneasy, ask to be let out in a busy, well lit place.
• If in doubt, do not get in.

By public transport

• Plan your route.
• Wait in well-lit areas, preferably where there is a group of people.
• Sit near other people or officials if you are travelling alone and move away from people who make you feel uncomfortable.
• Don't advertise your valuables in public, such as phones and jewellery.
• Take care in crowds. Make sure bags and pockets are not open to thieves.

In pubs and clubs

• Think ahead - consider how you are going to get home.
• Think about pre-booking a taxi or arranging a lift with a friend or family member.
• Make sure that you stay with your party and that someone knows where you are at all times.
• Steer clear of trouble - if you see any trouble or suspect that it might be about to start, alert the police and keep away.
• Walk with confidence and be wary of casual requests from strangers, like someone asking for a cigarette or change.
• Avoid carrying your wallet in your back trouser pocket.
• Where possible, don't walk home alone.
  
  

*** Whilst out and about in Middlesbrough town centre, you may see our digital ads (above) which link to the personal safety page on our website, as we aim to highlight the issue of personal robbery and raise awareness of steps which can be taken to help deter offenders. ***