The deceased include two 18 year old women at Newcastle University and a 21 year old man at Northumbria University.
The Union state they are “absolutely devastated” by the news.
“Any loss of life is a horrific event, and to lose four young people in our city and community, in this short space of time, is especially heartbreaking.”
The statement contains a link to an urgent warning issued by Northumbria Police yesterday. The force cautioned: “We would urge anybody thinking about taking drugs to please not take the risk. The consequences could cost you your life.”
In the statement, NUSU place an emphasis on welfare as opposed to regulations: “A reiteration of the law will not be useful or productive. We need empathy at this difficult time.”
This comes after a message was sent to all students on behalf on the Vice Chancellor last night, in which he stressed the importance of following the law and reminded students. He explained “Your safety is in your hands.”
NUSU took a different approach, recommending that where drugs are present, we as students should “not leave your peers by themselves. If your peer is in a state whereby they cannot look after themselves or are unconscious, you MUST call an ambulance."
"If you are going to take something then you must tell someone what you have taken, how much and you must stay with at least one person."
They also recommend students reach out to the Student Wellbeing Team and Student Advice Centre as well as external resources such as Talk to Frank.
The statement concludes by acknowledging the “shocking and upsetting” nature of the deaths and assures students.
“NUSU are here to support you however we can.”
Featured Image: Pictures by Bish