Bristol students have been warned of the dangers of drink spiking and harassment in a new safety awareness campaign. It has been released in time for the return of the 60,000-strong student community during Freshers' Week.
Last year, there was a surge in needle spiking at nightclubs in Bristol and across the UK prompting a petition for venues to search guests for weapons on entry. In June, the Government announced it was considering making drink spiking a criminal offence.
Bristol City Council, Bristol City Centre BID, Avon and Somerset Police, Bristol University, the University of The West of England and Bristol Nights have joined forces to share tips for staying safe at nighttime around the city.The five films and poster campaign feature advice from police officers, Bristol Harbour Master, venues and university students.
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The campaign offers insights into drugs and alcohol harm reduction, drink spiking, looking out for your friends, water safety and stopping harassment. The films also address reducing burglaries in student residences, as well as taking care of yourself and others when out and about in the city.
Councillor Ellie King, cabinet member for public health, communities and Bristol One City, said: "Bristol is one of the UK's leading university cities and has an amazing diverse and creative economy which attracts students to study from all corners of the world. Our goal when starting this project was to give Bristol’s students the information they need to stay safe whilst enjoying their time studying here.
"If we can prevent one student from becoming a victim of crime, then we have made a difference. This initiative is designed to bring together our city to amplify the most important things they can do to have a great experience, signposting that our venues and organisations are trained to respond to any incidents and we’re here to help.”
The campaign sees a re-distribution of the Bristol Rules billboards and posters – a collaboration between the city council, universities, Bristol City Centre BID, Bristol Nights and venues across the city – focusing on five themes, offering advice and support on how to safely enjoy a great night out to those sampling what the night-time economy has to offer.
Head of BID Vicky Lee said: “Bristol’s vibrant night-time economy is one of the many reasons why students choose to move to our city. Freshers season is usually a flurry of activity in our pubs, clubs and restaurants, so we wanted to send a message to new residents to our city about how to look after themselves and each other.
"The films bring in expertise from the Police as well as students themselves, giving a united message as a night-time community to make people feel welcome and highlight where to turn for help.”
To watch the videos, visit here.
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