With the start of the new academic year, students across Bath are being reminded of a Safe Taxi Scheme to support them when they’re out and about.
Sian Bentley with Kane Wollen, General Manager, V Cars | Photo © HUW JOHN, Cardiff 12/10/2021
Working in collaboration with the Students’ Union’s at Bath Spa University and Bath University, the Safe Taxi Scheme from V Cars ensures that all students can get a lift back to their halls after a night out, even if they don’t have any money for the fare on them.
The taxi firm, part of the Veezu Group, offers the service to students at participating universities seven days a week, allowing them to book a journey to the value of £20, and pay via their Student Union within 48 hours.
By phoning 01225 464646, quoting either ‘Bath Spa University Safe Taxi Scheme’ or ‘Bath University Safe Taxi Scheme’, and having a valid student card as proof of ID, a vehicle will be sent to stranded students as a matter of priority.
The end location must be a student residential address, halls of residence, police station or hospital. Members of each Student Union are trained to offer support and advice about the service and take payment.
Kane Wollen, General Manager at V Cars, said: “Moving to a new area and starting university can be daunting, even more so for Freshers this year who are beginning their higher education experience in unusual circumstances.
“We are here as students in Bath find their feet; our emergency service will ensure they get home safe without worry over finding the fare.
“Our precautionary safety and hygiene measures against Covid-19 will also provide students with peace of mind that their journey will be as safe as possible.”
Sian Bentley, Welfare & Community Officer at Bath Spa University Students’ Union, said: “We are delighted to partner once again with V Cars, having worked with them pre-pandemic, for this really important scheme to ensure student safety across the city.
“The start of a new academic year and, for Freshers, a new city can be overwhelming but services like these with welfare at their heart can only enhance the student experience.”
Meg Crossman, Students’ Union Community Officer at Bath University, added: “We’re so excited to be working with V Cars to introduce a Safe Taxi Scheme.
“We’re really pleased to have welcomed students back in Bath and we want to make sure the student experience is the best it can be.
“This scheme is part of our ongoing work to ensure student safety is prioritised, giving students more safe options to get home late at night.”
