Moving to Brighton for university marks an exciting step towards independence. For students, it represents new experiences and opportunities. For parents, ensuring their child's safety naturally remains a priority.

Brighton has established itself as a secure environment for students, with over 21,000 university students and a safety index of 61.2. The city has invested approximately £300,000 in dedicated student safety initiatives. This guide outlines the practical steps students can take to stay safe whilst making the most of Brighton.

Choosing Secure Accommodation

Accommodation choice significantly impacts student safety and wellbeing. Purpose-built student accommodation provides comprehensive security features that private rentals often cannot match, and for students new to Brighton, that peace of mind matters from day one.

Fresh offers two purpose-built properties in Brighton, each designed with student safety and community at its core.

Pavilion Point is located in the heart of the city, within easy reach of both the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex. It offers an on-site residents' team, secure building access, CCTV, and contents insurance included as standard alongside a vibrant community of students settling into Brighton life together.

Promenade Student Living, situated at Providence Place in Brighton city centre, is a brand-new property that opened in 2024. Just a nine-minute walk from the University of Brighton's City Campus, it features 24-hour secure access, on-site management and maintenance teams, 24/7 CCTV, and contents insurance included within all-inclusive rent. For students who value both security and community, its outdoor courtyards, study spaces, and TV lounge provide safe social spaces without needing to venture far from home.

Notably, all Fresh properties, including both Brighton developments, are registered members of the Safe Space Alliance, a national network of venues committed to providing a safe environment for students and young people. Both properties' central locations also mean students are close to well-lit, busy streets, reliable public transport, and Brighton's wider network of night-time safety services.

Night-Time Safety Support Services

Brighton has developed robust support systems specifically for students during evening activities.

Safe Space Brighton Located at St Paul's Church on West Street, Safe Space Brighton operates every Friday and Saturday from 11pm to 3:45am. This free service provides first aid, a safe environment, phone charging, and support for getting home safely. Contact: 07979104406.

Night Safety Marshals Trained marshals patrol West Street and the city centre, working directly with Sussex Police to identify vulnerable individuals and provide immediate assistance.

Safe Space Sussex App This app helps students locate nearby safe spaces when they feel unsafe or become separated from friends.

Practical Safety Measures

Before Going Out: Planning ahead reduces risk. Check transport times, charge your phone fully, inform flatmates of plans, and familiarise yourself with your route home. The University of Brighton provides free personal alarms at Student Information Desks.

Awareness of Spiking: Spiking remains a concern that Brighton venues and Sussex Police actively address. Never leave drinks unattended, avoid accepting drinks from strangers, and remain vigilant about vapes. Many clubs offer free StopTopps anti-spiking drink covers.

If you suspect spiking, alert venue staff immediately, seek medical attention, and report to Sussex Police.

Getting Home Safely: Use well-lit main routes, travel with friends, and trust your instincts. Only use registered taxis or established ride-share applications. Contact Sussex Police on 101 (non-emergency) or 999 (urgent situations).

Campus and Accommodation Security

Students living at Pavilion Point or Promenade Student Living benefit from on-site residents' teams, contents insurance included within their rent, and access to Fresh's free 24/7 Student Assistance Programme,  a confidential helpline provided in partnership with Health Assured covering mental health, personal safety, and general wellbeing support. Mark possessions with UV pens (free from university security offices) and ensure you are familiar with your building's emergency procedures on arrival.

Supporting Student Independence and Safety

At Fresh, we understand that feeling safe enables students to fully embrace university life. Pavilion Point brings together everything a student needs to feel secure in Brighton, a central location, an on-site residents' team, all-inclusive bills, contents insurance, and membership of the Safe Space Alliance, all within a vibrant student community designed to help new arrivals settle in with confidence.

Brighton offers students an exceptional environment for learning and personal growth. By choosing secure accommodation, understanding available support services, and taking sensible precautions, students can enjoy everything this vibrant city offers from day one.

For more information, visit the University of Brighton safety page or the Brighton student safety guidance. In emergencies, always contact 999.

Ready to find safe, supported student accommodation in Brighton? Explore Pavilion Point or view all Fresh Brighton apartments.