Impact Investigates By Arabella Mitchell
Investigation
Feeling safe whilst at university has always been important for students (and their families). One fear that many share is being burgled or having possessions stolen. This is not only feared on campus but in the city or town of the University. There is a presumption that theft is more common in student areas (such as Lenton and Dunkirk) than on campus. Impact’s Investigation team examines the safety of students on University Park Campus and in the city centre, specifically regarding theft.
When discussing theft, it is evident that the crime rate tends to be higher in the city centre, regardless of where you are in the country. As centres have a higher footfall, there is no surprise that theft is more common. As the table below demonstrates, the 2023 crime count within the city centre is significantly higher than in any other Nottingham area.
The following statistics are taken from the Crime Count of popular Student areas. This table highlights the crime count of 2023 (until August 2023). Additionally, it ranks all 33 areas in terms of safety (one being the most dangerous).
Although theft certainly does happen within the city centre, this piece will primarily focus on the University campuses and popular student areas (Lenton, Dunkirk, Beeston and Radford). This is not only because crime is more inevitable within the centre but also because only a minority of UoN students live in Nottingham city centre.
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