Image Credit: David Ritter

The recent “disturbing” robbery on University of Portsmouth students in Elm Grove underlines the fact that, unfortunately, students can be victims of crime.

At a recent Union Council meeting held on 21st February, The President of UPSU, Elle Gray stated in her report to the council that: “We are working on setting up a map of incidents involving students to see if there are any ‘hot spots’ that need extra attention.”

A map will not only show students which areas of the city have a higher rate of crime against students. It will also help the police know where to increase patrols and reduce crime to make Portsmouth a safer place for students.

The President also informed those present that a specific fence will be taken down on Winston Churchill Avenue to reduce incidents of crime in that particular area, notorious for mugging. She added: “ I asked for a student representative on the Safer Portsmouth Partnership and we will now have a place.”

Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, the Leader of Portsmouth City Council was part of a meeting, which included Elle Gray and the Vice Chancellor of the University Professor John Craven on a number of issues including crime.

Cllr Vernon-Jackson told Pugwash News “ I would like to do whatever we possibly can to help reduce violence against anyone in Portsmouth, but it seems to me we need a special strategy to help protect students.”

Student Activities and Development Officer, Ben Norman, added “The Union sees the welfare of students in the wider community as a top priority, we will be working with the University and the local council to ensure that students are safe to enjoy living in Portsmouth”.