Monday, 27 November 2023
A new partnership between the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University and Nottingham Police will see increased community support in student areas.
This partnership comes as a deliverable of the Nottingham Student Living Strategy, which underwent public consultation earlier this year. It’s part of a drive to enhance student support and safety, reduce crime in student areas, and build even more positive relationships between the Police and staff and student communities.
Two dedicated Police officers – Paula Hipkiss and Nick Lewis – will work closely with university teams and you’ll likely see them around our Nottingham campuses and student residential areas in the coming weeks.
Paula and Nick have been selected for these roles by representatives from the Police, the university, and the Students’ Union.
Watch our reel to get to know Paula: https://bit.ly/3T6R3XV
Paula said: “Having been based in Beeston, I have worked with many students off campus. I am eager to engage with staff and students on the various campuses and become a familiar and approachable face. During my thirty-four years policing, I have taken many opportunities to improve my knowledge and skills. I am looking forward to this new opportunity to help students feel happy and safe during their university experience.”
Nick added: “I have a lot of experience engaging with students participating in the night-time economy and I have supported them in instances when they have unfortunately been victims of crime. I am now looking forward to being that familiar face that students frequently see and can get to know and trust.”
The partnership marks a new approach between the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University, and Nottingham Police in making a formal commitment to working proactively together on shared priorities. It’s a valuable opportunity to help build on our vibrant, positive communities.
Paula and Nick will be friendly faces in student residential areas in Nottingham, and you might occasionally see them on our campuses. They are people who you will be able to approach for advice on a range of matters including personal or property safety, or getting advice on how to report an incident and support with the process if required. They will also be supporting with safety campaigns and community work focussing on student safety and wellbeing.
Keep an eye on our social channels. There will be opportunities for you to get to know Paula and Nick over the coming weeks.