'Safe taxi' scheme for Aberdeen students

A taxi scheme aimed at keeping students safe is being launched in Aberdeen.

The collaboration is aimed at allowing students from Robert Gordon University (RGU) and the University of Aberdeen to get home by using their student card as payment if they do not have money.

The student then repays the cost to Rainbow City Taxis on collection of their card.

Police Scotland described the Safe Taxi Aberdeen scheme as a "great provision" for the city.

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Rainbow will return the card to either the RGU union or the University of Aberdeen's Student Association (AUSA).

Edward Pollock, RGU's student president for communication and democracy who has led the scheme's establishment in Aberdeen, said: "The scheme has been hugely successful in a number of other cities and we are glad to be able to make it a reality here in Aberdeen.

"The welfare of students in Aberdeen, particularly around Freshers' Week, is a key concern of the students' associations of the city.

"Whilst we hope the scheme doesn't need to be used often, we are hopeful that this emergency provision will provide students with the support and comfort that they have the option to always get home safely."

'Comforting to know'

Gordon McKay, general manager of Rainbow City Taxis, says: "The student population is a vibrant part of Aberdeen.

"Rainbow is delighted to be working with RGU and the University of Aberdeen in providing a service that will support vulnerable students in an emergency situation, giving a safer alternative to walking home."

Ch Insp Graeme Mackie, from Police Scotland's Aberdeen city division, said: "This scheme is a great provision to have in place as Aberdeen prepares to welcome new and returning students ahead of the Freshers' period.

"While we always advise students to prepare and know how they're getting home, it is comforting to know that they have this option as a backup."