If you do decide to take on private work for an individual e.g. home tutoring, please consider the potential risks to your personal safety first.

Here are some personal safety tips you may wish to follow:

• Always talk on the phone before meeting the individual - ask proactive questions, listen for any inconsistencies and be aware of any odd behaviour.
• If meeting with the individual before accepting the position, always do so in a public place.
• If you are visiting someone's home, ask if anyone else is going to be there.
• Always let someone know where you are going by providing the name of the individual, their contact details and the address of the location you will be working in.
• Be contactable - carry a mobile phone and let someone know when you arrive and how long you expect to be there for.
• Don't be afraid to carry a personal alarm with you.
• Where possible try to undertake your job during the daytime.
• If you have any reservations about the individual or the role you will be taking on, do not accept the position.
• If you feel uncomfortable or unsure at any point during or before you arrive, make an excuse and leave.
• Do not get picked up by car and do not give anyone a lift.

Although it is sensible to remain vigilant, please remember that personal safety issues are very rare.

See LSE's campus safety tips for more information about being safe at LSE and in London.