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Emergency situations

If you have an emergency overseas please get in touch with the University of Leeds as soon as possible.

Outside of normal working hours - please contact University Security Services on +44 113 343 2222. During normal office hours - please contact the Study Abroad Office on +44 113 343 7900.

In the unlikely event of an emergency such as natural disaster, war, civic unrest or a threat to your personal security we encourage you to:

Immediately after a situation arises

  • Ensure the safety of you and those around you by raising the alarm, calling appropriate emergency service(s), and following local authority advice.
  • Maintain regular contact with key people - your host university, the Study Abroad Office at Leeds and your family and keep them informed of your whereabouts and movements.
  • Inform the British Embassy in your host country. Let them know your whereabouts and contact details, and follow advice on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office about safe and no-go areas.
  • Seek help locally if you need it, from your host institution (Accommodation, Study Abroad Office, Parent Department).
  • Check email regularly – the University of Leeds will make contact using your Leeds email address.
  • The University of Leeds travel and medical insurance policy includes emergency response and support. For contact numbers, see www.leeds.ac.uk/insurance/travel.htm.
  • Keep a low profile and be cautious.
  • If possible, avoid travelling alone.

Planning your response

  • Make a decision in collaboration with embassy representatives, on-site coordinators and the Study Abroad office at Leeds.

  • Communicate all decisions to key people (family, Leeds Study Abroad Office and your host university). 

  • If possible, keep everybody informed of your whereabouts, including your arrival at a safe location.

  • Update your new contact details and address on Minerva so that you can be contacted easily.

Useful contact details and resources

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