'SEX ATTACK' REPORTS AT STUDENT DIGS
SECURITY STEPPED UP AT CITY CENTRE SITE
POLICE are investigating reports of a sexual assault at a student accommodation block in Swansea.
Students have claimed they are the target for abuse and claim there is fighting every night at the city centre accommodation block due to a lack of on-site security.
They claim the problems at St David’s, behind Swansea train station, are so bad with fighting and property being destroyed that police are being called out every night. Police have confirmed they are investigating an alleged incident of sexual assault at the location.
Students have now alerted Swansea East MP Carolyn Harris’s office to the problems, which has led them to contact Student Roost which owns the accommodation that houses students from both Swansea University and University of Wales Trinity Saint David.
Bosses at Student Roost said most of its students behave responsibly but it had now put extra measures in place to tackle the issues at St David’s.
It is understood more staff have been drafted onto the site and they are working closely with the police and university to ensure students are complying with Covid-19 rules.
One student, who did not wish to be named, claimed there wasn’t enough security on-site and police were called every night to deal with reports of assault, fighting and property being destroyed.
There has also been an alleged sexual assault which has been reported to police.
The student said: “I moved to St David’s and I have no words for what’s going on here.
“A security guard is stationed by reception and not near the student area, it’s abysmal.”
Mrs Harris MP said her office had raised the issues with Student Roost.
She said: “I am very concerned to hear that there was an issue, I have started correspondence with the company on how this happened, what the security arrangements are and how they intend to tackle these issues going forward.”
Jason Andrews, director of Operations for Student Roost, said: “The vast majority of our residents
have been acting responsibly and following the measures in place to protect everyone from Covid19.
“This has already been an incredibly difficult year for students, and we want to make sure they have a safe, comfortable and happy stay with us.
“However, we are aware that there have been issues with parties and antisocial behaviour at St David’s in Swansea in recent weeks, as well as some reports of an extremely serious nature.
“We do not condone this behaviour in any way, and we are working closely with residents and local universities to prevent this happening in the future.
“We take any reports of criminal or antisocial behaviour extremely seriously and will not hesitate
to contact the police and support them with any investigations.”
He added: “All our properties are already staffed 24/7 to support our residents.
“However, we have put additional measures in place at St David’s in response to these issues.
“This includes bringing in extra team members at night, working across the property to prevent visitors or intruders and to provide additional support to all our residents during this difficult time.”
A South Wales Police spokeswoman said: “An allegation of sexual assault at the location has been reported to police, and is currently being investigated.
“Police in Swansea have been working closely with
local authority partners to address issues at the Student Roost accommodation.
“Management at the venue have been reminded of their obligations and have been advised on measures which must be taken to ensure student safety and compliance with current coronavirus legislation.
“Police have responded to complaints about large gatherings, noise and antisocial behaviour at the location in recent weeks.
“Such behaviour cannot and will not be tolerated.”
She added: “Our officers have adopted the four Es approach used throughout the pandemic, to engage with students and management. Enforcement will be taken where necessary and proportionate.”