‘No second chances’ Swansea University warns students breaking Covid rules

Andrew Rhodes, Swansea University’s registrar and chief operating officer, has warned students of the actions the university will take if anyone is found breaching Covid rules.

In a message directed at the undergraduates, he writes: “There have been numerous breaches of our guidelines and expectations as agreed to by you when you signed the Covid-19 supplemental student charter and this behaviour breaches the terms of the charter.”

He further warns: “There will be no second chances.

“You must not gather in mixed households or large groups anywhere especially in your flats but also outside in courtyards or other open areas.

“Please take your responsibilities as a member of our community seriously.”

The announcement sent out to Swansea’s undergraduate students follows a number of breaches across both campuses in Oystermouth Road and Fabian Way. This reportedly includes student parties having taken place despite the ongoing lockdown. The warning is extended to those living on and off campus, including the large number of students living in Uplands and Brynmill.

The university has been working with South Wales Police to create efficient measures to tackle offending. Students have been warned that if they break the rules, they will receive a final written warning and be required to sign a behavioural contract – both of which will stay in place for the remainder of their studies.

The tenants found guilty of hosting parties will receive an eviction notice along with a similar behavioural contract.

Students served with any notices by the police for breaching Covid rules will also face further disciplinary action. Students without any identification will be removed from the campus as well and will not be allowed to returned back without any student identification.

Kevin Child, Swansea University’s director of student services said: “Our priority is the safety, health and wellbeing of the entire university community, especially in these very challenging times.

“This [letter] was sent to all students across university campus accommodation to emphasise the very real threat of Covid-19 to our students, staff and wider community populations.

“The intent was to raise awareness and prevent individuals from entering the disciplinary process, which is the last thing we want for any student.

“It is a reminder that irresponsible behaviour breaching not only our Covid-19 Supplemental Student Charter – which all students agreed to when enrolling – but also current government guidelines will be addressed robustly.

The students have further been instructed to follow social distancing norms and Covid guidelines set by the Welsh Government. These include social distancing in all the other campus spaces, study spaces and public places in general.

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