PSNI launches Student Safety Campaign 2025 as Freshers’ Week gets underway in NI universities

(L-R) Belfast City Chief Inspector, Mark Conway, Paula Irvine, Student Wellbeing Manager and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Manager at Belfast Met, Una Calvert, Community Relations Officer at Ulster University and Ryan Rankin, Neighbourhood Engagement Officer, at Queen’s University

As Freshers’ Week gets underway, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University, Belfast Metropolitan College and Belfast City Council, has officially launched the 2025 Student Safety Campaign.

The initiative aims to promote safe and respectful behaviour as thousands of new and returning students arrive in Belfast to begin or continue their academic journey.

Chief Inspector Mark Conway, of the PSNI in Belfast, stressed the importance of providing students with reassurance and support. He said:

“In previous years, we have always welcomed new students, along with returning students for the start of their academic year, and this year is no different. We want students, no matter what stage they are in their studies, to feel safe and well informed about what is happening in their area.

“Students’ safety and wellbeing is of paramount importance to us, along with the safety of the wider community in the area.

“We want to reassure students that your local policing team is here for you and we will continue to work closely with partners across further and higher education campuses, as well as Belfast City Council, over the next year.”

He explained that officers will be engaging directly with students to share crime prevention advice and ensure they know how to access help, both on campus and during Belfast’s busy nightlife.

Chief Inspector Conway added:

“Our officers will be visible and we remain committed in creating safer spaces across all our local communities, which is an essential part of the Tackling Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Action Plan.

“Furthermore, our successful initiative, Ask for Angela was launched three years ago, with over 400 bars and clubs signing up across Northern Ireland. It is a simple, yet effective, initiative that allows those who may find themselves in a vulnerable situation with a quick and discreet way to access the help they need. Should any issues arise ‘Ask for Angela’ at participating venues.”

Education partners support safety message

Ryan Rankin, Neighbourhood Engagement Officer at Queen’s University Belfast, said the campaign plays a crucial role in helping students settle into university life:

“As we prepare to welcome new and returning students to Queen’s, student safety and wellbeing remains a top priority. We are proud to again support the Student Safety Campaign in partnership with the PSNI and our education colleagues.

“Starting university is an exciting time, but we recognise it can also feel daunting, particularly for those living away from home for the first time.”

He added that the university will continue to raise awareness, promote support services, and empower students to look after themselves and one another.

At Ulster University, Community Relations Officer Una Calvert reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to protecting students:

“Our strong partnership with the PSNI has been vital in enhancing student safety. By working closely together, we have built a proactive approach that not only addresses challenges swiftly but also strengthens the sense of security and trust across our university community.”

Similarly, Belfast Metropolitan College emphasised its focus on building good community relations while promoting student wellbeing.

Paula Irvine, Student Wellbeing Manager and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Manager, said:

“We want to ensure that all our students feel safe in their new surroundings and that they show respect to their neighbours. We are fully supportive of the Student Safety Campaign, and we will work in conjunction with all partners to promote security for our students and good relations with the wider community.”

City-wide approach

Belfast City Council also welcomed the initiative. Councillor Ruth Brooks, Chair of the People and Communities Committee, said:

“Belfast is a welcoming, vibrant city, and we want every student who comes here, whether for the first time or returning, to feel safe, supported, and part of our community. This campaign is an important way of ensuring students know where to turn for advice, support and reassurance, while also encouraging respect for the people and neighbourhoods they live in.”

Practical advice for students, including tips on staying safe and protecting property, is available online at PSNI Student Safety.

Students can also learn more about the Ask for Angela scheme, report concerns via the PSNI’s online reporting form, or follow updates on Facebook, Instagram and X.