As Freshers’ Week begins and thousands of students arrive in the Welsh Capital, Dragon Taxis has pledged to support university students throughout the academic year with its Safe Taxi Scheme.
Working in collaboration with Cardiff University Students’ Union and Cardiff Metropolitan University Students’ Union, the Safe Taxi Scheme, now in its eighth successful year in the city, ensures that all students can get a lift back to their halls or student residence after a night out, even if they don’t have any money for the fare on them.
The taxi firm, part of the Veezu Group, was also one of the first transport companies to introduce additional measures this year to make journeys as safe as possible for both passengers and driver partners. The measures, designed to mitigate the spread of coronavirus, include specialist cleaning regimes, in-vehicle protective screens, the wearing of face coverings and passengers sitting in the rear of the vehicle.
Between the hours of 10pm and 6am, seven days a week, students from the participating universities can book a taxi journey to the value of £20, and pay via their Student Union within 48 hours.
By phoning 029 2033 3333, quoting either ‘Cardiff University Safe Taxi Scheme’ or ‘Cardiff Metropolitan University Safe Taxi Scheme’, and having a valid student card as proof of ID, a vehicle will be sent to stranded students as a matter of priority. The end location must be a student residential address, halls of residence, police station or hospital. Members of each Student Union are fully trained to offer support and advice about the service and take payment.
Midhun Pavuluri, Cardiff Metropolitan University SU President, said: “Student safety is a key priority for us here at the SU and we’ve benefitted from a successful partnership with Dragon Taxis for the last 4 years. If our students come across any issues such as lost wallets, cards or purses, this is a valuable emergency option available to all. We are here to support our students wherever possible.”
Jack Price, Regional Director of Dragon Taxis, said: “Moving to a new area and starting university can be daunting, even more so for Freshers this year who are beginning their higher education experience in unusual circumstances.
“We are here as students in Cardiff find their feet; our emergency service will ensure they get home safe without worry over finding the fare. Our precautionary measures against Covid-19 will also provide students with peace of mind that their journey will be as safe as possible.”