Coronavirus rules across the UK: What does it mean for students?

The past year has been extremely challenging for all of us, and whilst we’re trying to adapt to the new way of life, it’s understandable to feel a little uncertain. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted your day-to-day student routines, and the government guidelines can feel like they’re constantly changing, so it’s normal to have questions.

Our team is doing everything they can to make your uni experience comfortable and safe. And to put your mind at ease, we’ve put together some guidelines to help clear up any confusion, and get us back to normality as soon as possible!

Our Residences

We have some new regulations in our student accommodation across the UK, keeping everyone safe during your time with us.

We’d love to keep our communal areas open for you to enjoy, but whilst the UK is in full national lockdown, some of these spaces need to be closed. Once the restrictions ease, our gyms, study spaces, TV rooms and more will be back open, but you’ll need to book a slot to use them by speaking to your residence team. When moving through our common spaces, please also be mindful that you will also be required to wear a face covering. 

You’ll also notice that our professional cleaners are taking extra care to ensure all communal spaces are cleaned routinely and thoroughly. There will be hand sanitising stations for you to use throughout each building too, so you can rest assured that the residences are as covid-safe as possible. 

The UK Cities during Lockdown

There’s currently a national lockdown in place across the country, with quite a few restrictions in place. 

Contact restrictions

In line with the latest guidance from the UK government, we ask that you stick to the rules prohibiting households to mix. We know this is hard, and feeling connected is a huge part of university life. We want you to feel included in our student community as much as possible during this time so throughout our residences, you’ll have access to ultra-high-speed broadband, which is perfect for catching up with friends and family or joining one of our virtual events!

Looking after yourselves and others is more important than ever, so we’re also hosting virtual wellbeing events for you to join if you fancy a chat, or want to say hello to your fellow residents.

Shopping and eating out

All non-essential businesses are closed to the public at the moment. This includes high street shops, bars and restaurants. Luckily it’s not all bad news, as some pubs and eateries are providing takeaway and delivery services, so you can still enjoy your favourite foods from the comfort of your residence. 

Mask requirements

We’ve all had to get used to wearing face coverings in supermarkets and on public transport, and this rule doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere for a while! Invest in a couple with your favourite prints as you’ll need to wear them whenever you’re in a public space unless you have a medical exemption.  

Alcohol

Only certain pubs and bars are able to sell alcoholic drinks, so you can still order your favourite cocktail, but you’ll have to take them home or be at least 100 metres away from the premises before you can drink them.

Exercising

You’re allowed to meet one person from outside your household and undertake your daily exercise. But stick to parks and other outdoor areas which are a reasonable distance from your home. If you do head out into the great outdoors, don’t forget to social distance from others at all times.

Religious celebrations

Under the national lockdown, places of worship are allowed to stay open but numbers are restricted. Be sure to check with your local place of worship for specific guidance.

While life under these circumstances can feel tough, it’s important to remember that they are in place for your safety, and the safety of others around you. 

If you need any further information or advice, please get in touch with your dedicated team.