The York and North Yorkshire Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime, Jo Coles, is urging students to download a new street safety app alongside the re-release of a locally produced anti-stalking film, as they start their new academic year.
Start Safe Stay Safe
The new app, Start Safe Stay Safe, aims to improve street safety in York and North Yorkshire. It offers a straightforward, and confidential way for members of the public to report street, town and city centre incidents. It also enables authorities to quickly identify patterns of abuse and criminal behaviour and help them to respond more effectively.
Start Safe Stay Safe enables users to:
- Report anonymously for information only
- Access specialist support
- Capture audio, video and picture evidence
- Report the incident for formal investigation by police or council
It also provides a route through to Stop Hate UK 24/7 helpline providing further guidance on support and reporting.
The Start Safe Stay Safe app increases reporting from those individuals and communities who are reluctant to report directly to the police or other statutory agencies.
- Download Start Safe Stay Safe from Apple Store:
https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/start-safe-stay-safe/id6740459349
- Download Start Safe Stay Safe from Google Play:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.stophateuk]
Just a Kiss
The film, titled ‘Just a Kiss’, follows the story of a young university fresher who, having met a man on a night out, becomes the victim of stalking. The film chronicles how stalking can quickly escalate and impact the lives of victims and displays the perspective of friends and family.
The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority is now re-releasing the film as students across the country return to universities, colleges and schools, raising awareness of the dangers of stalking and helping them find appropriate support.
Jo Coles, York and North Yorkshire Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime said:
“Going to university is an incredibly exciting time – but it’s also important to stay safe if you are moving away from home for the first time.
“The Mayor David Skaith and I, are committed to working together to deliver safe places for all, particularly combatting the appalling levels of violence against women and girls.
“I’m grateful that our universities already take tackling this issue seriously and are doing everything they can. I’m also pleased that our region will see an additional 32 Constables and 20 Police Community Support Officers following a £2 million Government investment into York and North Yorkshire, which will go a long way to making everyone feel safe.
“However, if you are a victim of crime, the most important thing is to report it to the police by calling 999 in emergencies, 101 for non-emergencies, or through the Start Safe, Stay Safe app. Our Supporting Victims Team can also provide free advice and information. Call them on 01609 643 100 or visit their website: www.supportingvictims.org.
“To raise awareness of stalking we have re-released our video, ‘Just a Kiss’, which demonstrates what stalking can look like. If you’re worried that this is an issue that is impacting you, you should contact the police.
“I’m very pleased that you chose to come to beautiful York and North Yorkshire for university. Enjoy it – but remember, you’re not alone. Please reach out for support if you need it.”
The full film of Just a Kiss is available to view on YouTUbe: JustAKiss FILM – One Kiss – One Obsession
