Campus Safety Notice - update Monday 5 October
As colleagues and students return to campus this morning, we recognise that Friday’s incident may have been unsettling.
5 October 2026
Following a report of a suspicious item, police carried out searches of the area, which involved evacuating a number of University buildings. Searches were subsequently stood down and a man was arrested on suspicion of communicating false information.
All safety checks were completed on Friday before allowing people to return, and buildings are operating as normal today.
We understand the disruption and inconvenience caused by the evacuation and closure of buildings and campus, and we appreciate the patience and cooperation shown by our community.
The safety and wellbeing of our staff and students is our utmost priority, and the actions taken were necessary to ensure the situation could be managed safely. We take all safety concerns incredibly seriously, even if we believe it to be false information.
If you notice any suspicious behaviour or security concerns, please report them promptly by calling Campus Security on 0191 208 6817 or on the Emergency Line 0191 208 6666.
You can also download the SafeZone App (available free for all students). For imminent/serious security concerns, do not hesitate to contact the police on 999.
We all have a vital role to play in maintaining the safety and security of our University community. Thank you for your continued support and attention to campus security.
If you have been affected by Friday’s events or would like to speak to someone, support is available. Thank you for the care and support you continue to show one another as a community.
Wellbeing support is available. If you or your friends need support, please visit the Student Health and Wellbeing webpage.