Festival SOS

related links

1. Emergency contraception
2. Feeling lonely?
3. Understanding mood swings
4. Camping safety
5. Festival food
6. Drinking at festivals

Next Steps

1. A dedicated branch of the Samaritans that you'll find at most UK festivals.

I'm lost and emotional!

• Too much sun, alcohol, drugs, absent partners or even crowds can leave some people feeling distressed and in need of support. Whatever the reason for your emotional wobble, even if it's a pre-existing condition, help is always at hand.
• Stewards and security staff are a familiar sight at any festival and are there to uphold the safety and happiness of every reveller. Whatever state you're in, they'll make your welfare a priority.
• Alternatively, find the medical tent yourself and let them know what's going on.
• Avoid (further) drink/drug consumption, apart from medicines prescribed to you by a doctor.
• Deal with too much sun by seeking shelter and sipping regularly from a non-alcoholic drink.

Feeling down?

Samaritans has a special festival branch, dedicated entirely to providing a 24-hour Samaritans service at events around Britain. If you are feeling upset, depressed or even suicidal at a festival, head to the Samaritans tent for round-the-clock emotional support. Find out what festivals the Samaritans will be attending this year. 

I'm busted!

So you're the unluckiest festival-head in the field. Don't panic. Even if you've been caught red handed - for possession or possession with intent to supply - you still have rights. Just remember that the law applies at festivals too. 

• Give your name and address when asked, but if you're in any doubt about further questions then get a solicitor. You won't lose any rights: nor will it cost anything.
• The police will provide you with a list of independent solicitors. You can pick one and call them. They may advise you over the phone, or visit you on site in person.
• Alternatively, call Release on 020 7605 8654.

I'm stuck in a crowd crush!

UK festival security standards are high. Even so, if the squeeze is on, whether you're at the front of the stage or simply stuck in a bottleneck where festival paths collide, it's good to know how to take care of yourself.

• Stay calm. Freaking out can be infectious and risks adding to the chaos.
• Identify which direction the crowd surge is coming from and move away from it.
• Don't be tempted to try picking up any personal possession you may have dropped in the crush. It's more important you stay on your feet. 
• If you're in serious trouble, let people around you know. If you're finding it hard to breathe because of the crush use your arms to attract attention.

Emergency contraception and STIs

Panics about emergency contraception or STIs shouldn't be ignored just because you're at a festival. If you have had unprotected sex, or are concerned about any aspect of your sexual health, call the FPA's helpline on 0845 3101334 where you can speak to a qualified nurse for advice on what to do. The FPA can also give you details about the nearest clinics to your festival. If you are under 25, you can also call Brook on 0808 802 1234.

Crime

You'll find a police presence at most festivals. Their main aim is to keep on top of crime, so if you are a victim of theft or abuse, be sure to report it to them as soon as possible. Most festivals will have a static police base so ask a steward for directions if you can't find them.

Sexual assault

If you have been a victim of rape or assault at a festival it is very important that you report it immediately. Follow the advice under the police section above and contact your local Rape Crisis Centre helpline for advice and emotional support.

Your mobile's been nicked

Lost your phone or had it stolen? Here are the numbers for the main network operators:

• O2 0870 5214 000
• Orange Contract: 07973 100 150 / Pre-pay: 07973 100 450
• T-Mobile 0845 412 5000
• Tesco Mobile 0845 301 4455
• Three 08707 330 333
• Virgin Mobile 0845 6000 789
• Vodafone Contract: 08700 700191 / Pre-pay: 08700 776655

Banks

If your card has been lost or stolen, all banks offer emergency 24-hour services. You can get a list of your bank or building society's numbers on the CardWatch website.

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