For many students and staff the experience of the pandemic has created increased risks and some people may have new or worsening health conditions. We recognise that many disabilities and health conditions are not visible.
We know that many of our disabled students and staff have understandable and real concerns for their own safety and protection and therefore as a whole community we need to be highly conscious and responsible in how we protect ourselves and each other. It is still important to remember that Covid-19 is highly transmissible and we need to take extra care. We need to create space for each other, maintain good ventilation, as well as wearing face coverings (where possible) to minimise the risk of Covid-19 transmission to others.
The University signed up to the nationwide Sunflower Lanyard scheme with Hidden Disabilities in 2020. A sunflower lanyard can be used by those who have a hidden disability so university staff and students can identify those who may require extra help, understanding or patience, and in some cases exemption from face coverings.
We ask all students and staff to be mindful and respectful. Regardless of whether or not you wear a sunflower lanyard, it’s not ok to experience any kind of bullying or harassment. If you experience or witness any such behaviours, you can report it online at Report and Support.
What are the exemptions to wearing face coverings?
This is the Government guidance on exemptions and the University also has its own face coverings policy. This includes (but is not limited to):
- people who cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability
- where putting on, wearing or removing a face covering will cause you severe distress
- if you are speaking to or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading, clear sound or facial expressions to communicate
- to avoid harm or injury, or the risk of harm or injury, to yourself or others ‒ including if it would negatively impact on your ability to exercise or participate in a strenuous activity.
- police officers and other emergency workers, given that this may interfere with their ability to serve the public.