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Stuff stolen? Lost? Busted? Crushed? Read this.

SOS!

If it all goes wrong

Festival disaster? Dig yourself out of trouble.

My stuff has gone missing!

Maybe your money has gone walkabout, your tent's been turned over, or there's nothing left of it but for a charred patch of grass. It's bound to be gutting, but you can take steps to make yourself feel a little bit better.

  • From theft to fire and pick pocketing, it's vital that you report the incident to the festival police at the earliest opportunity. It may not guarantee return of your stuff, but you may need to provide paperwork to your insurance company should you go on to make a claim.
  • If a crime has been committed, informing the law may mean nobody else suffers as you have.
  • If credit/debit cards have gone awol, contact your bank to cancel them, If your phone has been nicked as well, the police will help you to make that call.
  • As for getting through the rest of your time, consider relying on the kindness of friends and even strangers the festival spirit might just see you through. Again, if you've reported the crime then the police will take steps to protect your welfare and get you home safely.

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.
  • If you're simply feeling fed up with the festival spirit, consider finding a quiet, sheltered spot (if it's hot) and chill out on your own terms for a while. Just be sure to tell someone where you're going first. If possible, be contactable by mobile phone. Also consider calling The Samaritans (0345 90 90 90) if you need to talk things through in confidence. They have a festival branch too so look out for their tent or ask a steward to direct you there.

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 UK 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, and 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 that 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.