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COVID-19: Planning for the next academic year

03 Aug 2022

Actions that will be taken over the summer period in preparation for the 2022/23 academic year

COVID-19: Planning for the next academic year

Since 1 April 2022, our University has been working to the UK government’s Living with COVID plan

Restrictions have been lifted and our campus has returned to normal operations, but with many preventative measures still in place, noting that cases of COVID are still present in our community. 

For the summer 2022 period, it has been agreed by our Outbreak Planning Group that campus can now be prepared for the 2022/23 academic year, whilst adhering to the current national and local guidance around COVID-19. 

Please note that these changes have been consulted on with Trade Unions for action over summer. 

  • Hand sanitiser units

Action: wall mounted hand gel dispensers will be retained at entrance areas only for use on entering buildings, with soap and hot water available in all toilets across campus to maintain hand hygiene. A limited number will remain in locations identified locally as supporting an operational requirement.

  • Signage 

Action: all outdated COVID-19 related signage will be removed. Future signage if required, will be deployed under the instruction of Campus Management Group (CMG). Any new messaging will be focussed in main entrances, on electronic display boards, and through online communications. 

  • Ventilation

Action: we remind colleagues to continue to open windows where they are openable for ventilation and to close after use, in wet weather or to adjust when balancing thermal comfort. All other areas are mechanically ventilated so no further action is necessary unless reporting a fault to the Estates Helpdesk

  • Cleaning 

Action: anti-viral wipes can still be used where available but will not be restocked at this time. Future provision of wipes will be considered depending on changes to Government advice, if required. Estates will continue to use long acting antiviral products when cleaning surfaces and touch points. 

  • Face coverings

Action: provision of face coverings will be maintained at main building entrances for people to use if preferred, or for people at a higher risk from COVID-19. CMG may provide further guidance on the use of face coverings in Semester 1 taking into account any future changes in Public Health advice. 

What you need to know

You should continue to report a positive COVID-19 test result – this enables us to monitor infection rates within our University community. While there is no longer a legal requirement to self-isolate following a positive test, it is important for anyone who has COVID symptoms or tests positive to stay at home, avoid contact with other people for at least five full days, following current NHS guidance.