Where to find information about using email

Email is now the most common means of communication in the work place and Oxford Brookes is no exception. The dispersed nature of the University makes email a vital tool, but it is one that everyone must use sensibly. Essential reading for all users is the Electronic Mail Policy and Guidelines for Use of the Internet (including e-mail). It is important that everyone complies with these policies and guidelines when they use the university's email system.

There are a number of guides available that can answer questions you may have about the facilities that are available to email users and give you information about future plans for the system. You should also read the email policy included in the current Staff guide to Computer Services.

Can I read my email when I'm not at Oxford Brookes?

You can access your Brookes email when you are away from Brookes, whether at home, abroad, or at other universities? To access your email you can use Brookes WebMail, all you need is a connection to the Internet and a web browser. No configuration is necessary and WebMail even has a search facility for looking up Brookes email addresses. WebMail does not have the problem that other email programs have with free Internet Service Providers (ISP) where a connection from an ISP that is not properly registered is rejected by the email server. For information on Brookes WebMail click here.

Can I send an email to blocks of staff or students?

The University mail system can be used for 'block mailing" that is sending the an email to groups of staff or students by using a ready made block of email addresses rather than making up your own list. Sending unrequested email (known as 'spam') or email for which there is no work related purpose will be treated as a breach of the Regulation for the use of IT facilities at the university. More information on block mailing can be found here.

I get a lot of spam, why doesn't the University mail system protect me from this?

The growth in spam, (electronic junk mail), is a worldwide problem. The University does delete emails that are identified as spam, but it is often difficult to separate it from genuine email so unwanted messages can still get through to your mail box. More information on dealing with the spam that reaches your Brookes email account can be found here

I know I'm going to be away from Brookes can I forward my email?

When you know you are going to be away from Brookes on business or on holiday you should arrange for your email to be forwarded to a colleague. You can also arrange for the central mail system to send an automatic reply to let people know that you're away. More information is available in Email and absence from Brookes

What happens to my email if I'm away due to illness?

If you are away unexpectedly, whether due to sickness or for other reasons, your colleagues may need access to work related messages in your absence. A request for the re-direction of your email must be made by the Dean of your School or your Director who must sign a request form. All requests for access must be must be authorised by the Director of Learning Resources, or her nominee. Access in these circumstances will only be permitted in accordance with the University's Electronic Mail Policy.

What happens to my email when I leave Oxford Brookes

If your employment at Brookes is ending, your email can be diverted to a colleague for short period of time. You should ask for this to be done before you leave. An email to postmaster will do.

Can anyone send email to me at Oxford Brookes?

It is the policy at Oxford Brookes University to allow email to flow into the University without restriction. However, there are occasions when sites or ISP's may be 'blocked' from an sending email to anyone at Brookes. For more information click here.