Bradford student crime refuge scheme hailed a success
A scheme which allows university students who are the victims of street crime to find refuge in local shops has been a success, police have said.
Under the Student Safe Spot scheme, those who feel threatened can go into buildings displaying a sticker until they feel safe again.
Once inside, they can ask to call a friend or for the police to be called.
West Yorkshire Police said overall crime in student areas had dropped by more than a quarter.
Insp Kevin Pickles said there had been a 28% reduction in reports of assault between 1 September 2009 and 31 August 2010 and 25% fewer reports of public order incidents.
This related directly to areas of the city used by students, including their campus, private and rented accommodation and the routes around them, the police officer added.
The plan is the result of a partnership between the University of Bradford, Bradford College, West Yorkshire Police, Bradford Council and neighbourhood watch initiative City Centre Beat.