The Police Service of Northern Ireland has launched a student safety campaign in partnership with Queen's University Belfast, Ulster University, Belfast Metropolitan College, Belfast City Council and SOS Bus NI. Announced on Wednesday 9 September, the initiative encourages safe and respectful conduct while helping students connect with their local officers.

The campaign will see a visible police presence in key student accommodation areas, alongside close collaboration with local communities and education providers to keep people safe. Officers will also share crime-prevention advice in person and via social media, and support efforts under the Tackling Violence Against Women And Girls (VAWG) Action Plan.

Launching the campaign, Chief Inspector Loreen Glenn said: "We look forward to welcoming new and returning students to Belfast for the start of this academic year.

"The city has a vibrant student community with some of the most prestigious universities and colleges around the world. Belfast is an outstanding city in which to grow both through education and personally, and we will be on hand to keep all students safe during their time of study and ensure responsible behaviour.

"The safety of students and the wellbeing of the wider local community is a priority for us. Local police will be working closely with partners across further and higher education campuses and Belfast City Council in the coming month.

"Our student safety campaign will provide crime prevention advice directly to students and across our social media channels. Officers will also be visible and accessible in the local community, reinforcing these messages and ensuring that we are there when needed. We will be working with partners on the ground to prevent harm and address any issues in the local area.

"We will be providing useful crime prevention advice through our various social media platforms to students and reminding everyone of their importance to respect their local community and acknowledge residents living in these areas. We will also be sharing useful information about keeping both yourself and your fellow students safe when out of the lecture theatre.

"We remain committed to creating safer spaces across all of our local communities, as part of the Tackling Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Action Plan. We know that it is an incredibly exciting time for our young people finding their own independence, many for the first time, but it can also be daunting.

"As well as students from across the UK and Ireland, our third level education institutions will be hosting international students and we hope they avail of the various resources to make their time in Belfast both enjoyable, productive and safe. We will be working closely with our university and college partners to help new students acclimatise to living in Belfast and getting the most out of their educational experience.

"Getting out to enjoy the bustling nightlife is a key part of many freshers' experience and we want to make sure they are safe when they do. The Ask for Angela initiative continues to be a positive deterrent to unwanted behaviour, with over 400 bars and clubs signed 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.

"We want all students to enjoy a positive experience of living in the city, part of which is to be aware of their own safety and how we and our partners can help them."

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly said: "Students are a hugely important part of Belfast's community, and we want everyone coming to the city to feel safe, welcome and supported.

"Mar chathair fáilteach, tá sabháilteacht ar cheann de na príomhrudaí is tábhachtaí don phobal – más mic léinn nó turasóirí iad, más mná nó fir iad. "As students begin or return to university, it is important that we work together to ensure that student areas remain safe and that everyone is respectful of the communities they are living alongside.

"Through this campaign, we are working closely with the PSNI, universities, accommodation providers and local communities to promote positive behaviour, address concerns and ensure there is a visible presence where it is needed.

"Everyone has a role to play in keeping our neighbourhoods safe. I would encourage students to look out for one another, be considerate of their neighbours and know where to go for help or support if they need it.

"Luíonn sé fúinn uilig cathair fáilteach a chruthú do gach duine a chónaíonn anseo agus ról againn uilig, más Comhairle na Cathrach, na hOllscoileanna nó eagraíochtaí móra eile – táthar orainn agus thig linn an Béal Feirste a ba mhaith linn bheith againn."

Ryan Rankin, Local Engagement Manager at Queen's University Belfast said: "Belfast has so much to offer students during their study experience which is why this city attracts students from across the world. We recognise that it can mean navigating huge change, especially for those living away from home for the first time.

"At Queen's, we are committed to embedding a culture of respect, integration and community contribution to complement the educational aspect of the student experience. Our civic culture and student volunteering schemes are central to empowering students to look after themselves and one another. We are delighted once again to partner with the PSNI for their Student Safety Campaign which plays a vital role in helping students feel safe and connected to the support networks available to them."

Gabrielle Smyth, Interim Residential Life Manager from Ulster University, said: "Starting or returning to university should be a positive and exciting experience, and feeling safe and comfortable in the city and communities around our campuses is an important part of that.

"By working closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, our education partners and local communities, we can help students enjoy everything university life and Belfast have to offer, while encouraging a shared responsibility for creating safe and respectful communities."

Kelly McPolin, Belfast Met Pastoral Care Manager said: "At Belfast Metropolitan College, the safety, wellbeing and success of our learners is at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to support the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Student Safety Campaign and to work alongside our partners across further and higher education to help students make a positive and safe transition into college life.

"It is important that students know where to access support, understand how to stay safe, and feel confident seeking help whenever they need it. We encourage all learners to engage with the resources available to them and to play their part in building a safe, respectful and supportive student community across Belfast."

Micky Murray, CEO of SOS Bus NI, added: "We are delighted to be working alongside the PSNI, Queen's University Belfast, Ulster University, Belfast Met and Belfast City Council to help students stay safe and enjoy everything Belfast has to offer.

"Starting university or college is an exciting time, but for many students it is also their first experience of living independently and navigating a new city, including its nightlife. Through our work on the streets of Belfast, we see first-hand the difference that early intervention, practical support and a friendly face can make when someone finds themselves vulnerable or in need of help.

"Every student should be able to enjoy Belfast's nightlife and communities in a safe, respectful and welcoming environment. We're proud to play our part in making that happen and ensuring students know that, if they do need support, there are people and services available to help them."

Students can find practical safety tips and property protection advice at www.psni.police.uk/student-safety.