Thursday 19-12-2024 - 10:03

Due to a decline in the number of students using the Night-cab scheme to get home safely and a rise in prices, we’ve made the tough decision to stop offering our night-cab service and find better ways to improve student night time safety.

The scheme will end on 31 December. Initially, It was set up for students to get home safely as a one-off if they were alone and unexpectedly needed a cab when they didn't have money. This year the scheme has already run 40% over budget on rides by repeat users, which research indicates are using it for other purposes. The way students pay for taxis has also changed. This isn't the best way we can help keep students safe.

Student safety is still a top priority. That's why the Student Officer Committee are discussing better, more efficient ways to help students who find themselves needing to walk home alone if they don't feel safe to do so. This and other safety initiatives will form part of a wider nighttime student safety workstream.

We want to help all students to get the support they need. We aim to launch several new safety initiatives over the year. We'd encourage students to be aware of the lit routes map of Durham, plan your night time routes in advance and look out for your friends.

For further information on staying safe in Durham at night visit: Enjoy a great night in Durham - Durham County Council