Covid-19 testing – changes to guidance

A message from Professor Debra Humphris, Vice-Chancellor emailed 21 December 2020 to all students

You have doubtless seen the updates from the Government announcing more rigorous restrictions over the Christmas period and beyond, to help slow the spread of Covid-19. I know that for many of us these latest changes will have caused further anxiety, disappointment and perhaps frustration.

It is important that we also play our part in continuing to keep ourselves, those that we can care for and our wider communities safe.

What’s changing?

Previously we have advised that students would not need to self-isolate if they do not take a Covid-19 Lateral Flow Device (LFD) test upon their return to University. In light of the latest information from the Government, that guidance is now changing.

If you do not take a Covid-19 LFD test you must self-isolate for ten days when you return to University.

The exception to this is if you have already tested positive for Covid-19 in the previous 90 days, or if you have tested negative in your home town immediately prior to returning. Please note that if you are planning to return to University from a tier 3 or tier 4 area you are strongly advised to get a test before returning to campus.

In the meantime, you can book your test now.

Book your Covid-19 testing now

International students returning from abroad should continue to monitor their country and UK travel guidance closely.

It is possible that there will be further guidance issued by the Government so please do continue to check your University email during the break.

Once again, thank you for your cooperation and I wish you the very best for the Christmas break.