‘Right to know’ Uni ‘refuses’ to reveal Covid outbreak site
ASTUDENT has criticised the University of Gloucestershire over the information it has given following positive tests for coronavirus.
The third-year student said university bosses should reveal the name of the campus linked to the “small number” of students who tested positive for coronavirus.
The student, who wished to remain anonymous, said she couldn’t understand why the university wouldn’t reveal more about the campus involved.
University of Gloucestershire has four campuses, including Oxstalls in Gloucester, and The Park, Francis Close Hall and Hardwick, which are in Cheltenham.
Last week, it was reported that six students had tested positive for Covid19 and had been told to self-isolate.
A spokesman for the university said at the time: “A very small number of students have tested positive for Covid in the past week and are now isolating, in line with PHE guidance.
“Anyone deemed to be a contact is being followed up via the NHS test and trace service. We will continue to work hard with all our students and staff to make sure we are doing all we can to minimise the risk to them all.
“Our buildings on campus remain Covid-secure, and we have reiterated to all staff and students that it is essential that we all continue to observe the basic rules of social distancing, wearing of face coverings, and observing good hand hygiene.”
The student, who attends the Oxstalls campus and has children, said she wanted to know where the cases were.
Having already consulted the student helpline, she said the university staff have “refused” to reveal information about where the outbreak happened.
She said: “The person on the helpline wouldn’t give me any information.
“I just don’t think they’re taking it seriously.
“Even if you haven’t got children, we should all be told where it was. “Every student has a right to know.” A spokesperson for the University of Gloucestershire said: “Within the small number of positive Covid-19 cases in students at the university, each student concerned lives off campus and has only spent minimal or no time on campus prior to experiencing symptoms.
“Each self-isolated immediately with their households in line with guidance.
“We have liaised closely with PHE and been advised that these cases present a low risk of onward transmission and that no further action is necessary at this time. The safety of our staff and students remains our top priority, and we are grateful for their ongoing commitment to following the government guidance.”
The person on the helpline wouldn’t give me any information. I just don’t think they’re taking it seriously University of Gloucestershire student