Operation Batcombe
Operation Batcombe is a high visibility patrol of areas of the city with high student density between 7pm and 3am, operating on key dates in the academic year. This year, volunteers from the University partnered police and city patrol officers on these operations.
This operation also runs in partnership with the University of Southampton which runs another Operation Batcombe closer to their campus.
The patrols educate students about the negative effects of their behaviour and inform them of local by-laws, such as no alcholic drinking permitted in any public place in Southampton.
The operation involves seizing alcoholic drinks being consumed in public areas (roads) at the point of contact and the distribution of Yellow Cards|. Students are also provided with information and advice on anti-social behaviour, noise nuisance and personal safety. The University and Students’ Union recognise that as a large organisation occupying a number of sites, and with many thousands of staff and students, the University has a significant impact on the local neighbourhood. As such, they are committed to acting as a good neighbour.
The scheme has received good local feedback and Hampshire Police reported fantastic results on the 2011 shifts.