Student burglary campaign turns 'hairy'

A new police campaign to safeguard student homes from opportunist thieves has taken a “hairy” turn.

The Hairy Hands campaign is the brainchild of Durham City Neighbourhood Team and the latest initiative to help raise awareness of the issue, particularly around this time of year when students are finishing up for the Summer.

The neighbourhood team, led by Inspector Dave Clarke and supported by Community Safety and Engagement Officer Ashleigh White who is imbedded into the team following funding by Durham Police and Crime Commissioner, Joy Allen, designed the hands and headed out on patrol on Tuesday night in densely populated student areas.

Whilst most houses were secure and utilising home safety devices such as window locks, several ‘hands’ were also posted through open windows.

Designed to do exactly what it says on the tin and supported by the Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen, the double-sided leaflets are designed to catch your eye whilst also giving some crime prevention advice and the team’s contact details.

The team also gave advice to students who had left their doors insecure, asking them to be extra vigilant and not give thieves the chance to make off with their valuables.

Insp Clarke said: “We had a great time out and about on Tuesday night engaging with students who quite rightly want to celebrate the end of year and let their hair down after exams.

“And whilst everyone we spoke to saw the entertaining side of our campaign, we do have a serious message asking all students to be extra vigilant at this time of year.

“We will continue to do everything we can to raise awareness of this issue and work with students, Durham University and landlords to help deter opportunist thieves and send the message that our student population won’t tolerate this type of crime.”

The team are also working with Durham University and landlords to look at ways security can be further improved at student houses.

Sam Dale, Director of Student Experience at Durham University, said: “We take the safety of our students seriously and work closely with the police to keep Durham a safe place to live, work and study.

“We welcome the Hairy Hands campaign, and would also encourage our students to take these simple, sensible measures to help keep their homes secure.”