Doorsafe have once again come under intense criticism, Vision can reveal.
The University sponsered security company Doorsafe have faced complaints of “rough, aggressive and strict” behaviour.
This has left many freshers feeling disheartened after attending heavily manned student events.
“Waiting in line, we were constantly yelled at and told to move out of the way, even though there was no-one passing by,” one Derwent fresher remembers.
Furthermore, there was a feeling that the staff, who consist of mostly students, were enforcing what many students called “pointless rules”.
“I wasn`t even allowed to take my shoes off!” complained one Derwenter.
Many students also felt that they were given no warnings of their offences before being thrown out or having their drinks confiscated.
“I had one of my friends on my shoulders, and suddenly, with no warning, a couple of bouncers grabbed us both, ripped our bands and kicked us out,” says James Finn, another fresher from Derwent.
Discontent about Doorsafe is not a new phenomenon. Second and third years experiences echo those of the newly arrived freshers.
“The situation last year was awful. Door staff would just do what they wanted and act aggressively, seriously ruining campus events!” one second year student said.
YUSU has remained defiant over the criticims levelled at the bouncers.
Tim Ngwena says that in hectic situations, such as the Access All Areas, with some 2500 attendees, mistakes can happen but that Doorsafe does not target any one individual.
“People have to look at Doorsafe as a professional outfit, and they must maintain some standards.”
He does however urge those who felt unfairly treated to place a formal complaint. “Transparent complaints procedures should be followed, and will be looked into.”