University and College Union demands that masks must be worn on campuses

The University and College Union has sent a letter to the Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson, calling for better COVID-19 precaution measures this year.

In the letter, the union called for compulsory face masks on campus and free PCR testing.

It also urges the government to make vaccinations available to students and to make them a priority group.

The general secretary of the union, Jo Grady, described the reopening of nightclubs and the dropping of social distancing and masks as “reckless” and “a recipe for disaster”.

The letter also says that universities will “become incubators for COVID-19 all over again”.

“Our biggest concern remains in England, however, where the government has taken a reckless approach to the removal of restrictions and guidance of education providers,” says Grady.

She continued: “Last year, this complacency led to huge outbreaks, caused chaos for students and burnout for staff, who worked incredibly hard to maintain standards.

“With the vast majority of universities in England, ministers in Westminster are concocting a recipe for disaster that will threaten public safety.”

The government has made vaccines available to all people who are over 18, and also to those who are 3 months under 18.

Lateral flow testing is already in place across many universities.

The Department for Education responded to the letter by saying: “We strongly encourage all students to take up the offer of both vaccine doses as soon as they become eligible.

“We also recommend that face coverings are worn in enclosed and crowded spaces where people may come into contact with people they do not normally meet, or in the event of a local outbreak.”

NTU released their updated advice for the easing of government restrictions.

They have set out that students are to use their judgement on face masks, although there is an expectation that students will wear them in indoor crowded spaces.

However, it is emphasised that students should be mindful of other people’s choices and that, if requested, students should put a facemask on and respect others’ space.

Students are being encouraged to test regularly using on-site testing and home testing kits.

NTU also urge students to get vaccinated as soon as they are eligible.

Lead image: Daniel Foster