Dealing with non-Covid behaviour

This year is very different and there is a lot of information for us all to remember. As you know, we have installed lots of safety signage across campus to help everyone. One of the main actions we can all take to limit the spread of the Covid virus is to wear a face covering. We must also remember to stay socially distanced from one another.

Face coverings should be worn by students and staff inside University buildings. This is particularly important in busy areas, catering outlets and in teaching spaces.

We have produced a video to show all the safety measures in our teaching spaces and the importance of wearing face coverings. Academic staff may also have specific safety guidance about particular rooms. All teaching spaces have been laid out differently to ensure everyone can keep appropriately distanced.

Please remember that these are difficult times for all of us. Government regulations are changing frequently, and it can be hard to keep track. Please support everyone and help them to understand the expected behaviours.

From 17 May, Government guidelines state that you can meet indoors as a group of 6 or as two households. You may meet outdoors in groups of up to 30 people. 

It is important we all keep to the guidelines so we can help prevent the spread of Covid-19. If you see any behaviour that you are concerned about, you can raise this using the channels outlined below.  

Be sensitive – they may have forgotten their face covering, or perhaps they do not understand the need to wear one. They may not appreciate they are standing too near to you. Don’t assume they are purposely not following the guidance. Consider asking them if they have forgotten their face covering or if they understand the expected behaviours.

Keep your distance – by standing back from the individual, your body language will help signal to them that it isn’t appropriate for them to get close. They may not appreciate they are standing too near to you. You may also choose to point to your face covering, helping them understand what you are referring to. Please remember that not everyone needs to wear a face covering. They may choose this time to tell you they are exempt, assuming they feel comfortable to.

Help explain – if you think the individual does not understand the requirement to wear a face covering or to keep socially distanced, gently explain the guidance. You could refer to signage in the room and the teaching spaces video or lecturer slides. Always assume the individual does not know, rather than they are not adhering on purpose.

Seek support – there may be others in the room who are feeling the same way as you. Make eye contact and encourage them to help you in your conversation. Remember that some people find speaking out difficult. Be careful not to gang up on the individual or make them feel intimidated.

Request they leave the room – if the individual refuses to comply with wearing a face covering or keeping their distance, after you have tried the strategies above, politely ask them to leave the room. Do this sensitively and try to avoid confrontation. If the individual does not leave willingly, take their contact information if you are able to.

If you have followed the steps above but are still worried about an individual's behaviour, there is further help available. If you are concerned about the behaviour of a student, please report this to their tutor/module convenor or to the School Admin Office. If you are a staff member concerned about the behaviour of another member of staff, please talk to your Lead Building Manager or your line manager, for advice. If you are a student concerned about the behaviour of a member of staff, please contact your School Admin Office.     

Please remember this is a difficult time. Hands, Face, Space can help protect us all.

We must work together to keep our campuses safe and reduce the spread of Covid-19.

Thank you for your support.