University students living in Rushcliffe given community safety advice
Last updated: 17/10/2024
Students living in Rushcliffe have received doorstop advice on personal safety, fire safety, accommodation security and social responsibility in a new drive from local partners.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s (RBC) Community Safety Team have visited over 180 properties across West Bridgford to give advice on safety, security and crime prevention and a local area guide as well as a practical crime prevention kit.
They were also joined by representatives from Nottinghamshire Police, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, Nottingham Trent University (NTU) and Victim Care to share the key messages on staying safe whilst residing in the town.
It included sharing further key information on NTU’s Safe Space campaign that highlights safe and secure places on its City and Clifton campuses that can help individuals after a night out, if they are being followed, to leave a situation if they feel uncomfortable or to calm down if they are feeling anxious or can stay overnight.
Their Safe Spaces are located at the Goldsmith Street security entrance of the Boots Library for the City Campus and the upper floor of the Pavilion in room 123A for the Clifton Campus.
The crime prevention items issued to students included spike bottle toppers, 24-hour timers for lights, a window or laptop vibration alarm to deter thieves, personal attack alarms, toaster bags to reduce fire risk, local guide relevant to West Bridgford and personal attack alarms.
RBC’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety Cllr Rob Inglis joined the teams visiting properties to learn more about the initiative.
He said: “We’re pleased to welcome and assist our vibrant student populations in parts of Rushcliffe. This guidance and practical items are delivered on the doorstep with friendly advice from our Community Safety team and partners.
“This provides awareness and understanding of different aspects of safety during their stay and beyond and if they choose to stay in the Borough after their studies, how they can play a responsible role as a resident in their community.”
Guidance included to always walk as part of a group after dark, ensure there are adequate smoke alarms in their property, make sure all doors and windows are closed and locked when leaving, register valuables at www.immobilise.com and to be sensitive to any neighbours in the area.
A taxi initiative with Nottingham Trent University and Nottingham Cars was also promoted that began in 2021, where students who have run out of money or don’t have means to pay with them can get a taxi home and pay for it the following day.
Students should call Nottingham Cars on 01159 700 700 to book a taxi, stating they need to use the Student Emergency Fare scheme, show their student ID and the driver will then inform the university and give a receipt noting the cost of the journey.