Bicycle Theft at the UWE

There has been an increase in the number of bicycles taken from the University Frenchay Campus this academic year.

There have been 17 bicycle thefts in the first term (Sept – Dec 2024) from on Campus.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind all students and staff to always use a SOLD SECURE rated “D” lock to secure your bicycle.

Officers at the UWE offer free bicycle security marking several times a year across all four campuses.

Actions

• 6 October 2025
  

  Between June and the end of September 2025, there have been three additional reports of bicycle thefts or attempted thefts at the University of the West of England (UWE). The UWE Policing Team continues to work proactively to reduce these incidents and improve campus safety.

  In support of theft prevention efforts, a limited supply of high-quality D-locks—provided by the UWE Students’ Union—remains available for distribution. These locks are proven to be more effective in deterring theft and are being offered to students as part of our ongoing security initiative.

  As students return to campus following the summer break, we anticipate a seasonal increase in theft-related activity. Police and UWE security teams will be increasing patrols and monitoring across university sites to help deter opportunistic crime.

  To further support bicycle security, four free bike marking events have been scheduled across UWE campuses. These events are open to all students and staff and aim to help deter theft and assist in the recovery of stolen bikes:

  • Friday 17 October 2025 – 10:00–14:00 – Arnolfini (outside on Prince Street)
  • Friday 23 October 2025 – 10:00–14:00 – Frenchay Campus, Car Park 15
  • Wednesday 29 October 2025 – 10:00–14:00 – Glenside Campus, Museum
  • Friday 7 November 2025 – 10:00–14:00 – Bower Ashton Campus, Kennel Lodge Road

  We encourage all students and staff to attend these events and take advantage of the free security marking service. Together, we can help reduce theft and keep our campus community safe.

• 13 June 2025
  

  Bike theft remains a priority for the UWE Policing Team. Since January 2025 there have been 11 bicycle thefts reported to the Police.

  Five offenders responsible for bicycle thefts have been identified, where positive action has been taken against them. An illegal electric bike used by the suspects was seized and destroyed.

  Working in partnership with the UWE and the Student Union, the UWE Poling Team have engaged with students / staff and the general public and have security marked in excess of 150 bicycles under the National Bike Register Scheme.

  The Student Union have also supported the UWE Policing Team by providing a limited supply of D Locks to provide to students, in support of reducing bicycle theft.