Stranded without cash after a night out? The Safe Rides scheme is back, ensuring students can return home safely—no wallet required.
The Safe Rides initiative has made a comeback in Cardiff for the twelfth consecutive year, offering students a safe way to get around the city throughout the academic year, even when they are short on funds. Launched by private hire operator, Veezu, this scheme is designed to assist students in vulnerable situations and has become a crucial part of student welfare in the city for over a decade.
Working in partnership with Cardiff University and Cardiff Metropolitan University, the Safe Rides scheme ensures students have access to safe transportation at all hours, even if they do not have any cash for the fare. The students’ unions at both Cardiff University and Cardiff Metropolitan play an active role in supporting the programme and are fully trained to advise students on the service and take the deferred fare payments later on. In an interview with Wales Online, Madison Hutchinson, president of Cardiff University Students’ Union, expressed gratitude for Veezu’s continued support, calling the Safe Rides initiative “invaluable in keeping our students safe”.
She added: “This service provides peace of mind to both students and their families, and we’re excited to continue working together to support our university students throughout the academic year.”
Will Fuller, CEO of Cardiff Metropolitan University, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Veezu for their continued support through the Safe Rides initiative. This service plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our students, especially during times of need. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and strengthening our partnership to provide the best possible experience for Met students.”
How does the Safe Rides scheme work?
Students in need of a taxi can call Veezu Taxis at 029 2033 3333 and quote the Cardiff University Safe Taxi Scheme or Cardiff Metropolitan University Safe Rides Scheme. Through the scheme, stranded students will receive priority for a vehicle to be sent directly to them. This service is available to students from both universities 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will be covered by the respective Students’ Union.
Students must show a valid student ID card or provide their name and student number to the driver as proof of identity.
After the ride, the driver will forward these details to the relevant Students’ Union to follow up on payment. Students are required to repay the fare to their university’s Student Union within 72 hours of the ride.
Veezu, recognising the importance of providing students with a safe and reliable taxi service, prioritises their safety by requiring that all drivers are DBS-checked. Furthermore, with its service offered around the clock, Veezu’s taxi service is designed to meet students’ varied transportation needs, offering convenient travel options for commuting to and from lectures, social events, or exploring the city.
The Safe Rides scheme was first introduced in 2012 as a collaboration between Cardiff University Students’ Union and Dragon Rides, following a proposal by the Welfare and Community Officer Megan David.
Originally launched to help students get home safely after a night out, the scheme has since expanded to aid students in navigating the city in a variety of situations.
Jack Price, regional director of Veezu, said: “We’re here to support students moving to a new city and help them settle into Cardiff student life. This service ensures they can get home safely without the stress of worrying about a fare.”
Through the Safe Rides scheme, Veezu continues to be a vital part of keeping Cardiff’s student community safe throughout the academic year. Students can have peace of mind knowing they will always have a safe way home—even without money.