A new scheme has been launched to help Aberdeen students who are unable to get home safely.
The Robert Gordon University’s (RGU) Students’ Union and Aberdeen University have partnered with Aberdeen’s Rainbow City Taxis (RCT) to allow people without cash to pay for their journey using their matriculation cards.
The safety scheme has been launched to coincide with Freshers’ Week and the new academic term.
Students will be able to use designated “safe taxis” by calling the taxi firm and quoting their university and student card number, from September 21.
Rainbow City Taxis (RCT) will take a valid student card as a temporary payment and return it to either the RGU union, or Aberdeen University’s Student Association (AUSA), where the student will repay the cost on collection of their card.
RGU union was inspired to spearhead the new scheme after its success in a number of other cities, including Glasgow.
Speaking last night, Edward Pollock – student president for communication and democracy – said: “The welfare of students in Aberdeen, particularly around Freshers’ Week, is a key concern of the students’ associations of the city.
“The team at RGU:Union saw how the scheme has been positively set up in other cities such as Glasgow, and decided to take the initiative to proactively launch this project in Aberdeen.
“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.”
RCT offer a text-back system which verifies the booked taxi’s colour, make and registration plate, ensuring that students only get in the designated taxi where there will be a clear record of the booking.
Gordon McKay, general manager of the taxi firm, said they were “delighted” to get involved.
He said: “The student population is a vibrant part of Aberdeen City. Rainbow City Taxis, which already support a number of local organisations, is delighted to be working in partnership with RGU and Aberdeen University in providing a service that will support vulnerable students in an emergency situation, giving a safer alternative to walking home.”
For more information, visit www.safetaxiaberdeen.co.uk.
