Many of you will have seen media coverage of a serious incident that took place in Headingley on Saturday 26 April.
You can read the latest updates about the incident on the West Yorkshire Police website.
Although we are relieved that no members of our community were directly involved or impacted, our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with those who have been more directly affected, including the two women who were injured. Fortunately both women are recovering from their injuries and both continue to be supported by police as their investigation continues.
We recognise that Headingley is a vibrant and well-loved area in our city and many staff and students will be feeling concerned following this news.
The investigation is being led by specialist officers from Counter Terrorism Policing North East and supported by West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team. The police have confirmed that the incident was isolated and involved one individual who was detained shortly after police were called. Uniformed officers remain highly visible in communities to reassure residents, partners and business owners in the affected area.
The police are aware that material has been circulating online regarding the incident, particularly on social media. They have asked people not to speculate and not to repost such material. The ongoing investigation will examine all aspects of what took place and it is important material isn’t circulated which could damage enquires. If anyone has any information which could assist the investigation, they should call 101 quoting log number 925 of 26 April.
The University, working in partnership with Leeds University Union and other key partners in the city, continues to prioritise the safety, security, and wellbeing of our entire community.
We understand that incidents like this can cause anxiety. We want to reassure you that:
- We are liaising closely with the police and community partners.
- Increased police presence has been arranged in the Headingley area to provide reassurance.
- Support services are available to any member of our community who has been affected.
Support for staff and students
Our University support and wellbeing services and Leeds University Union offer students help, advice, and a safe space to talk about any concerns and issues.
Any members of staff who may be affected can access support. Locally, you can speak with your line manager or HR manager. A range of counselling and wellbeing resources are also available for staff at staff mental health and wellbeing.
The SafeZone app can also be used to ask for help – this is linked directly to the University’s Security team who are on call to help you 24/7 – or phone the Security team: +44(0)113 343 5494.
Read more information on student safety.
SafeZone
SafeZone is a free app that everyone on campus can use to ask for help. It is there to give you extra peace of mind in addition to the other support offered by the University. You can use the SafeZone app on the main University campus and at the University sports facilities at Weetwood and Bodington.
SafeZone has three main functions:
- For help with a physical or mental health incident, press the green ‘First Aid’ button.
- Press the blue ‘Non-Urgent’ button to connected to Security Services in a non-emergency situation, for example, if you are locked out of a building.
- The red ‘Emergency’ button is for threatening situations when you are in immediate danger.
Once you have raised an alert, do not press ‘Cancel’ until your issue has been fully resolved.
To download, search for ‘SafeZone’ or go to the relevant app store: