A pay-as-you-go mobile phone is a good way to start. You can buy a phone from many shops or if you have a phone and it is compatible you could just buy a SIM card. This card gives you a UK phone number and access to a UK mobile phone network. Using this enables you to communicate with friends and family, and with some phone companies you can send and receive international SMS messages (texts).

You need to buy credits for your phone – these can be bought in £5 - £20 top up cards from newsagents, supermarkets or the Post Office. If you register on the Internet with your provider you can top up your phone online.

Anyone can buy a pay-as-you-go phone on the high street – take a look at all the shops selling them. You can also ask their trained staff for free advice and talk about how you want to use your phone; for instance, to text internationally, to talk in the UK, to text only in the UK. They will be able to advise you. Do not feel pressured by one company, it is your right to ask other companies for advice and quotes before making a decision.

Security advice – when using your mobile phone be aware of your surroundings and keep yourself safe.

Try to avoid using your phone in crowded areas and having it on show.

Always lock your phone with the security lock code.

Never leave your phone unattended.

Write down your phone's IMEI code. This is usually found by typing *#06# on your mobile phone keypad or on a sticker underneath the battery.

You can also security mark your phone so it can be identified if stolen.