Greater Manchester Police to increase student area patrols

Officers will be offering crime prevention advice and maintaining a visible presence across Greater Manchester in a bid to help students stay safe during Freshers’ events and throughout the academic year.

The force has already attended Freshers’ Week activities at the University of Salford, where officers provided personal safety guidance and crime prevention advice to students.

Superintendent Simon Nasim, of Greater Manchester Police, said: “Greater Manchester is a fantastic place to study, live and socialise, and I’d like to welcome you to the area and wish you a safe and enjoyable experience.”

“Our officers are committed to working with partners to help you have the very best experience, and we will be patrolling student residential areas, and tackling high traffic areas and the night-time economy, to ensure you feel safe and know how to protect yourself from crime.”

As part of the campaign, GMP is also running fraud and cybercrime awareness events, including two sessions in Bolton.

Students and residents can attend an event at Bolton College on September 21 from 10am to 1pm, while another will take place at the University of Greater Manchester‘s Chancellor’s Building on September 29 between 10am and 1pm.

The events will be raising awareness about fraud and cyber crime awareness helping people find out more about how to keep yourself safe online. 

Police are encouraging students to be aware of issues including spiking, fraud, burglary, bike theft and unlicensed taxis.

Advice includes keeping drinks in sight on nights out, securing homes and bicycles, planning journeys in advance and only using licensed taxi operators.

The force is also reminding students that support is available through specialist services for those affected by sexual violence or abuse, while anyone who believes they have been a victim of spiking is encouraged to seek help and report incidents as soon as possible.

More information and crime prevention advice can be found on the Greater Manchester Police website.