Working for an individual can often be a great way to earn money on a part-time basis. Many students undertake this kind of work which can range from home tutoring or admin assistance to helping with childcare.

It’s important however that when thinking about working for an individual, you consider the potential risks to your personal safety first and foremost. Here are some personal safety tips we recommend you 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’re visiting someone’s home, ask if anyone else is going to be there.
• Always let someone know where you’re going and give them the full contact details of the individual and the address of the location you’ll 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 day.
• If you have any reservations about the individual or the role you’ll be taking on, don’t accept the position.
• If you feel uncomfortable or unsure at any point during or before you arrive, make an excuse and leave.
• Don’t get picked up by car and don’t give anyone a lift.
• Don’t make any payments to the individual.

Although it’s sensible to remain vigilant, please remember that personal safety issues are very rare. You can find more information about searching for jobs safely on our personal safety when searching for a job webpage and we also recommend you look at LSE’s campus safety tips for more information about being safe at LSE and in London.