STUDENTS and their families are being given peace of mind in the event of an emergency through a scheme offered by Sunderland’s biggest taxi firm.

Station Taxis will provide a “free” ride home for any student who runs out of money while socialising under a deal agreed with Sunderland University’s Student Union.

To get the “free” ride, a student simply has to hand over their Student Union Membership Card and sign an account at the end of the journey to confirm its cost.

The Student Union will reimburse the taxi firm and then receive  the fare from the student when they go to reclaim their Membership Card.

“The aim of the scheme is to ensure students reach their digs safely and do not find themselves in a situation where they are distressed or at risk of harm,” says Trevor Hines, of Station Taxis.

“The classic scenario is a student enjoying a drink in the city centre and losing or running short of money. In the past, they may have had to walk home which, late at night and in a city they don’t know, could be fraught with difficulties. Now, they simply call us.”  

The Student Emergency Taxi Service will run from September to June every  year and is thought to be the only one of its kind in the UK.

The service is open to all of Sunderland University’s estimated 17,500 students, as long as they have a current Student Union Membership Card, and is likely to be particularly popular to the 7,000 or more international students and those new to the city.

Adds Trevor Hines: “We anticipate the vast majority of calls will come from the city centre, and areas like Washington and Houghton-le-Spring, but if a student runs out of money in Newcastle or Durham, they will still be able to use the service.”

The Student Emergency Taxi Service will be formally launched during Sunderland University’s Freshers Week, from September 27 to October 1, when it is hoped students will register with Station Taxis to simplify the administration in the event of an emergency. 

The scheme has its own dedicated telephone number – 0191-565-65-65 – and all students will be given a card, small enough to fit into their purse or wallet, showing it and a selection of other useful numbers, such as hospital, police, transport services  the university and Student Union.   

For more information about the scheme, contact Station Taxis on 0191-555-5-555