The ‘Stay Safe Cambridge Uni’ initiative has been put together by representatives from the University, Colleges, and students, all based on the most recent public health advice. On top of that, Dr Simone Schnall from the Department of Psychology surveyed students and staff across the University and Colleges to find out which messages really hit home.
There’s a bunch of resources available now-including University-specific guidelines and videos-to help new and returning students and staff keep themselves, the University, and the city as safe as possible during this pandemic.
Most of what you’ll see in place at the University and Colleges should feel familiar. These steps are part of a plan to cut down community spread of coronavirus. You’ll need to wear face coverings in most buildings, and people from different households will be asked to practice social distancing. For many Colleges, a household means students living together sharing facilities like toilets and showers. The University and Colleges will also remind students about their responsibilities when they’re out around Cambridge and keep them updated with the latest public health news.
The University runs its own COVID-19 testing service, free for any member showing symptoms-and it covers their household members too. Tests can currently be done either at Addenbrooke’s Hospital or in the Department of Engineering.
“This year’s group of students – whether they are coming to Cambridge for the first time or returning to continue their studies – have been through an incredibly stressful few months, both because of the disruption caused by the pandemic and the confusion around exam results,” said Vice-Chancellor Professor Stephen Toope. “This academic year will be unlike any other, and it will be challenging for all of us, but we will do everything we can to make sure our students feel safe and supported while they are here.”
“We don’t yet know how long we will all be living with COVID-19, but we do know that our success in controlling the virus will depend on everyone playing their part,” said Professor Graham Virgo, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education. “We all have a responsibility to minimise the spread of COVID-19. We are members of a wider community and take our responsibility to others in Cambridge and beyond very seriously.”
The ‘Stay Safe Cambridge Uni’ campaign is designed to go hand-in-hand with Cambridge City Council’s ‘Stay Safe Cambridge’ effort that started after lockdown eased in early July.
Cllr Lewis Herbert, Leader of Cambridge City Council, said: “The successful and safe return of students and university staff to Cambridge this autumn is vital for them and for our whole city. We have, as councils, been working in close partnership with our universities, so that everything is in place to protect people and to share sound advice to newcomers.
“Ensuring younger people keep safe as well as have fun and make the most of their time in Cambridge will boost our local fight to beat coronavirus and avoid the ongoing risks of both a fresh surge and the need for a lockdown in Cambridge. This is why we unequivocally endorse the efforts of our two University #Stay Safe campaigns and the considerable thought and planning taking place, so that we and everyone in Cambridge can successfully deliver our #Stay Safe Cambridge campaign.”
A lot of postgraduate students-especially those whose research depends on labs-have already come back. Most undergrads will arrive when Michaelmas term starts on 8 October. Many Colleges plan staggered arrivals so social distancing can be maintained better-especially those based right in town.
