All Societies and Clubs to shut down in-person activities over lockdown

In an email sent today Sussex confirmed that the temporary shut down of all in-person club and society activities. This includes all those happening on or off-campus such as sports training, allotment use, dog walking, and non teaching related campus room bookings.

This comes after the announcement of national lockdown, with the shutting down of these events beginning Thursday 5th November. All activities booked until the 5th November will continue as normal.

The Sussex Tab spoke to a member of the Womens’ Football Club, Ruby Edwards, about the impact of this on students mental health who said “With everything being online football was the one thing in the week where I could meet new people, especially as a fresher, and it was nice in a world of zoom calls to get out outside. It helped both my physical and mental health. So although I understand that the shutting down of clubs like these is for safety reasons, I think a lot of students will struggle without regularly scheduled time away from their flat to train with other people.”

A spokesperson from Sussex University’s Dog Walking Society spoke to The Sussex Tab. They stated “We regret to say that Dog Soc walks cannot continue over the next month but we stand by the Student Union’s decision. Our walks over the last few weeks have greatly helped students with their mental health, especially during this pandemic, but sadly we must pause our regular activities to follow the government guidelines.”

In the email sent to all clubs and societies, the union expresses that they are “actively encouraging online events.” As well as “hoping to resume activities in December, however this is very much dictated by the government.”

For those wanting help running online event’s and seeking support and guidance with doing so, the university asks you please contact the events team- [email protected].