In 2017, the campus-based position of Higher Education Liaison Officer (HELO) was established through a partnership agreement between the University of Leeds Security Services and West Yorkshire Police.
The agreement was established in 2014 by the Police and Crime Commissioner for West Yorkshire, Mark Burns-Williamson and University Secretary, Roger Gair and is reviewed every year.
The HELO position is part-funded by West Yorkshire Police and the University of Leeds and is currently held by PC Rebecca Hurrell.
Rebecca works closely with Security Services on a daily basis and directly with many Services and Societies on campus, including Leeds University Union and Student Counselling Services, to:
– Improve relations between West Yorkshire Police and the University of Leeds with the emphasis being on students
– Reduce crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour on campus and local areas
– Reduce the fear of crime among staff and students
– Improve the safety of the environment on campus
– Work with young people to increase their community safety
– Give a better understanding of the police force and the criminal justice system
– Provide a proactive response to crime helping to problem-solve with the current crime trends
– Take initial action with students who are involved in crime, for example, drug use and assault
– Assist Security Services with potentially dangerous situations
– Provide crime prevention advice to staff students and visitors.
Customer Testimonial
“I am based on campus and am here to help in any situation. Along with investigating crimes that happen on campus with the assistance of the Security Team, I can also give help, advice and support to staff and students about all manner of issues. I am always happy to meet anyone to talk about any issue, letting them know the probable lines of investigation and allowing them to be fully informed when deciding if they would like police or university assistance in the matter.” PC Rebecca Hurrell