The new and returning students to Newcastle and Northumbria Universities have been given help to look after themselves and avoid becoming a victim of crime. Police officers have met with students at ‘freshers fairs’ handing out leaflets and advice on how best to avoid the attentions of opportunist burglars, by keeping valuables out of view.
A number of ‘meet and greet’ sessions with officers based on campus have also been taking place with police talking to students as they move into halls and start their new independent lives. University campus officers also offer informal drop-in sessions throughout the year for students to speak to them about any issues of concern.
Neighbourhood officers have also been visiting student flats and houses used by second and final year students as they move into private accommodation. Police have been giving student tenants crime prevention advice on how to beat the burglar and keep their valuables safe in their new home.
Chief Superintendent Gary Calvert, Newcastle Area Commander, said: “Starting in September we’ve seen a big influx of students coming to Newcastle and we’ve been working hard to make sure they have a safe and enjoyable time here. Newcastle is a vibrant city with lots to enjoy, whatever they’re studying, and we’ve been providing them with some timely advice to stay safe.
“Officers are also reminding students they need to behave considerately when coming back to their accommodation after a night out. Residents living near students do report higher levels of noise and anti-social behaviour, and Operation Oak helps us address these issues with additional police patrols in these areas, working closely with the city council’s Night Noise Team.”
Police have also reminded students to look after valuables, including mobile phones, as they go out socialising and to make sure they look after their friends and plan how to get home at the end of the night.
Officers have also been offering crime prevention and safety advice to students and other cyclists who live in the Jesmond area. More than a dozen sessions have been held in October with several planned for November. As well as giving cycle safety tips officers have also given away D-locks, on a first come first served basis, to help improve cycle security.
Chief Supt Calvert added “Police are here to help all sections of our community including students, many of whom stay in the city well beyond their initial university course. We want to make sure students are fully aware police are here to help them and can offer a wide range of advice and support from the start of their time here, right through their stay in Newcastle.”
Northumbria Police and Crime Commisioner Vera Baird said: “I would like to welcome students to Newcastle as they start or resume their student life. Students need to enjoy their time at university and not become victims of crime. By working together we can ensure we minimise the risk of crime. I’d encourage the students to familiarise themselves with their local officers and Neighbourhood Policing Team who will give them advice on how to protect their personal belongings and help them stay safe.”
