The Union Exec has helped launch spaces in the city where students in danger can take refuge.

The ‘Safe Spaces’ project is using a variety of Leeds landmarks to give students a recognisable place where they can seek help. Participants include the student unions of Leeds University, Leeds Metropolitan and Leeds Trinity as well as popular student destinations such as The Corn Exchange, Hyde Park Picture House, Trinity Leeds, Walkabout and The Warehouse.

The scheme, set up with ‘Businesses Against Crime in Leeds’ (BACIL) and West Yorkshire Police, also aims to build a network of businesses in Leeds that will work together on student safety issues.

A ‘Safe Space’ can be identified by a logo signifying that the venue will assist students in difficulty, including finding them a taxi to ensure a safe journey home.

The Union’s Community Officer Ben Fisher said: “I’m pleased that so many venues in Leeds share our aspiration to keep students feeling safe and happy when they’re out. Safe Spaces is just the start of an important partnership with local businesses, and I hope we can reach even more venues in the coming months.”

The scheme is already in operation and will be formally launched by the end of this week.

Wods: Carina Derhali