Students encouraged to share their opinions on safety at night in Carlisle

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Cumbria, local police officers and Welfare Hub volunteers, will be attending the Freshers Fair at the Carlisle campus of University of Cumbria on 28 September 12-2pm, to listen to student’s views on policing priorities and staying safe at night.

Members of the OPCC will be asking students their thoughts on policing priorities and local officers from the Constabulary will also be available to answer questions face-to-face. Student volunteers from Carlisle’s Welfare hub will be looking to recruit new members and the Police cyber-crime team will be on hand to answer any enquiries students may have. Information on victims’ services for those who have already been affected by a crime, ranging from sexual assault to theft, will also be available.

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: “Seeking the views from young people at the University, on matters such as safety during the night-time economy in our city and violence against women and girls, is essential.

“The information gathered provides me with an up-to-date understanding on the needs of local people, so that I can hold the Chief Constable to account on any safety concerns the students in and around Carlisle may have. It also provides me with information on how best to support local initiatives and establish a safer environment for everyone.

“I hope as many students as possible take the opportunity to visit our stall at Freshers Fair and let local police officers, members of my office and the cyber-crime team know your thoughts about policing in Cumbria.

The Fair is also a chance for students to find out more about our Safer Streets ‘Welfare Hub’, that will be recruiting volunteers and focusing on the safety of women at night in the city centre.

“With your help, we can all make Cumbria a safer place to live, visit and study.”

Sergeant Andrew Leather, Carlisle Neighbourhood Policing Team comments: “As the local neighbourhood Policing Sergeant, I would like to welcome new and returning students back to the city and surrounding areas.

“Cumbria remains one of the safest places in the country to live and visit, that is part down to the support and information provided to us by our communities.

“Unfortunately, crime does still happen here. If you have any concerns about crime, or have been a victim of an offence, please report it to us, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem to you. Your report will be taken by an officer and any offences investigated.

“I would also encourage students to follow the Constabulary’s social media accounts for up-to-date policing information and safety advice.

“Our officers look forward to meeting many of the new students at the Freshers Fair and also when out on foot patrol in the local areas.”

Katrina Love, Welfare Hub lead volunteer comments: “Each week, the Welfare Hub helps people to get home safely after a night out in the city, especially women and girls.

“I am looking forward to speaking with as many students as possible at the Freshers Fair and hopefully, it will provide a perfect opportunity to recruit more volunteers.

“Our service allows us to help all people who find themselves in a vulnerable position, whether this is because of being left by their friends or they feel uncomfortable after meeting someone from a dating site.

“In additional to officers on foot patrol in the city, volunteers at the Welfare Hub add an extra level of informal resource, providing a place for people to access help and support in a safe space.”

In an emergency call the Police on 999

For non-emergency enquiries call 101 or contact www.cumbria.police.uk

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