Commenting on Department for Education plans to allow university students to travel home for Christmas, UNISON senior national education officer Ruth Levin said today (Wednesday):
“Students want to share Christmas with their families like the rest of us. Thankfully, the government has finally come up with a plan, but many questions remain unanswered.
“University staff need clarity on who will deliver mass testing to undergraduates. Those who agree to be involved will need training and suitable safety kit.
“The whole testing process must be risk-assessed and properly supervised if it’s to be effective. Many students will need repeat testing if their results are inconclusive. Sufficient funding must be in place for universities so this programme can be carried out safely.
“The return of students in January will also be a major challenge. Ministers must release guidance as soon as possible to give universities the best chance to plan ahead.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk