Body find
Uni’s sadness at ‘distressing’ news
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The news from police that they have found a body in the search for Alec is extremely distressing and our thoughts continue to be with his family at this saddest of times. If any of our students have been affected by this news, we urge them to reach out to one of the many sources of support available to them. Professor Ian White, vice-chancellor of the University of Bath
The University of Bath has said news that a body has been found in the search for student Alec Unsgaard is “extremely distressing”.
Alec, a Swedish first-year student at the university, was last seen on campus on Friday, September 18, and was reported missing by his mother the following Monday.
Avon and Somerset Police officers leading the search for Alec confirmed on September 30 that they had found a body in the Bathampton area that they believed to be his, although a formal identification has yet to take place.
Officers said his family had been informed.
The university issued a statement following the news, saying it would be doing all it could to support his family.
Professor Ian White, vice-chancellor of the University of Bath, said: “The news from police that they have found a body in the search for Alec is extremely distressing and our thoughts continue to be with his family at this saddest of times. We will continue to assist them in any way we can, and to engage and support all others involved.
“If any of our students have been affected by this news, we urge them to reach out to one of the many sources of support available to them.”
The university has also issued advice to any student who has been affected by the news of Alec’s disappearance to make use of its support services.
The statement said: “Wellbeing advisors are available to help at our Student Services Centre on campus, or students can call 01225 383838 or email studentservices@ bath.ac.uk to talk via phone or video call if they prefer. Help is also available from the SU (students’ union) Advice Centre at suadvice@ bath.ac.uk or from our chaplaincy.
“Our university security team is available 24/7 and can be called for urgent support on 01225 383999.
“If staff are concerned about a student’s welfare, please call ext 4321 to speak to Student Services.
“External sources of support are also available, including The Samaritans, who can be contacted on 116 123.”