Updated advice on face coverings for all students

In the UK the Government has announced the temporary introduction of precautionary measures in response to the emergence of the Omicron variant of Covid-19. 

From today (Monday 29 November), in line with the updated Government guidance (Department for Education) we are now strongly recommending and advising that face coverings should be worn inside all corridors, circulation spaces and communal areas at the University, including:

• All teaching and learning settings
• All Study Spaces – including the Teaching and Learning Building.
• All Libraries – including the Main Library.

Also, wearing a face covering is now compulsory in the UK on public transport and in shops, including shops on campus. Face coverings do not need to be worn when outdoors and are not currently required in a residential setting, including University accommodation. 

Face coverings help protect the wearer and others against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth, which are the main confirmed sources of transmission of COVID-19.  We ask that everyone follows and supports the updated advice and guidance to help us to minimise the risk of transmission of the virus by wearing your face covering.

We recognise that some students may be exempt from wearing face coverings for various reasons.  Anyone who is exempt from wearing a face covering is encouraged to wear a sunflower lanyard which can be collected (FREE) from the Aston Webb Student Hub.

Thank you for your cooperation.