STUDENT SAFETY

More than 3,000 students in Bournemouth are living in halls, for many it is their first time away from home and with no parental guidance it is their first taste of independent living. Learning to cook and clean for themselves in itself can be a challenge, but how many of them are taking into consideration their personal safety?


Following the fatal attack of first year student Luke Campell, students have admitted to being complacent, Adelaide Allen, Vice president of the students union, encourages students to always be alert. “I was shocked the other day when a student said to me that she feels like she’s on holiday when she’s at university and so isn’t that careful. When living away from home I think you need to be more vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Students need to ensure someone knows where they are and if possible stay in groups late at night. I don’t think because of the murder students need to be worried but just be sensible and realise that their personal safety should be a high priority.”
Bournemouth is considered a relatively safe area to live but Miss Allen would still recommend that students carry a personal attack alarm. Presently they are not available from the University or Student Shop however; the Executive Committee are working on purchasing some to be available from the Students’ Union reception. “I think having an attack alarm can only help protect you when you’re out and about and I think both males and females should see the worth in buying one.”
First year student Elizabeth Stevenson, 19, from Bristol said “I wouldn’t buy one (personal attack alarm) as I think that there are better ways to stay safe. Personally I always make sure that I walk home in a group after a night out anyway.”
If students need any advice regarding anything mentioned in this article they are advised to pay Jane Devekey a visit. She has had extensive training with the Personal Safety Trust so that she is able to sort out any problems you might find yourself confronted with. She can be contacted by going to the Students Union above Dylan’s or alternatively via email, jdevekey @bournemouth.ac.uk.