The Union has encouraged students to think about their safety in light of recent sexual assaults in Leeds.

In a blog post, Welfare Officer Freya Govus told students to ‘take control back’ by taking personal safety measures when going out in the city.

She explained, ‘If you’re out and about during the day, simply stay vigilant of your surroundings. If you’re worried someone is following you, again, take control – cross over the road, call into a shop, walk where other people are around.’

‘If you have any concerns, take action and report it, either by calling 101 to report anything suspicious or 999 if you feel threatened, or if you think others may be at immediate risk.’

Student Advice Centre Manager Andrea Kerslake reminded students of the Union’s Nightbus and Amber Taxi scheme to ‘help ensure students get home safely at night’.

The LUU Nightbus runs every half an hour from 6.30pm. A timetable is available on the Union website.

West Yorkshire Police is appealing for information on two separate sexual assaults in recent months. In March, an 18-year-old woman was subjected to a rape and attempted murder in Beeston. Last Saturday, a man attempted to sexually assault a 23-year-old woman on St Michael’s Lane in Burley.

There is nothing to suggest the incidents could be related.

Freya added, ‘Remember, staying safe and not taking unnecessary risks are things you should make a habit of – not things you all of a sudden need to worry about.’

If you are concerned about safety or have ideas for improvements, contact Andrea Kerslake at a.kerslake@leeds.ac.uk.

Charlotte Mason