Durham Police to carry out extra patrols to help students stay safe

Officers will be carrying out extra patrols in Durham City this week to help university students stay safe as they arrive for the start of term.

With Covid-19 restrictions having been eased, students are expected to be out and about more, and they are being urged to ensure they look after themselves and each other.

Extra patrols are being carried out during the evening to help keep those studying in the city safe.

A video by officers covering a range of personal safety issues is available to students during their Welcome and Orientation Week.

As students settle into their new accommodation, they are also being reminded of the importance of not leaving valuables on display, locking doors and windows, leaving lights on when going out so the property looks occupied and respecting their neighbours.

Inspector David Turner, of Durham Constabulary, said:

“Whether you are a student coming to Durham for the first time or you are returning for another year, it is obviously an exciting chapter in your lives.

“Given the restrictions relating to Covid-19 last year, it is understandable you want to get out and about and meet friends.

“However, it is important that you do this safely, whether it is knowing your limits if you are out drinking, planning your route to and from home before you go out or making sure no-one is left behind on their own.

“Durham is one of the safest cities in the country, but to many of our students it is an unfamiliar place, and we need them to remember that when they are out and about.

“Our officers will be on hand throughout Welcome and Orientation Week, and we encourage students to say hello.”

The university offers students safety talks and information during Welcome and Orientation Week and nominated freshers’ reps support new students find their way around the city.

A night lights map shows lit walking routes and Durham Students’ Union operates a night-cab service that students can call to get home, priced £2 per journey.

Sam Dale, Durham University’s Director of Student Support and Wellbeing, said:

“The safety of our students is of the utmost importance to us. Durham is a safe place to live, work and study and we are committed to making it safer still.

“That’s why we’re part of key partnerships such as Durham City Safety Group and why we work closely with Durham Constabulary’s Police University Liaison.

“Our key advice to students on staying safe is: if you choose to drink alcohol, please do so responsibly; always plan how you will get home before going out; take safe routes home avoiding the river; and look after your friends and stick together when walking home.

“If students have any safety concerns, they can contact their College or the Police University Liaison Team.”

"We would encourage students to follow the police advice"

Alan Patrickson, chair of the Durham City Safety Group and Durham County Council’s corporate director for neighbourhoods and climate change, said:

“We are delighted to be welcoming new and returning students to our wonderful city and hope that they will once again be able to enjoy fully what Durham has to offer as Covid restrictions continue to ease.

“Durham is a very safe place, but we would encourage students to follow the police advice to both make plans in advance for how they and their friends are getting home from nights out, and to know their limits when drinking.”