Students sharing a coffee in the University of Portsmouth Library

The Latest Covid Guidance

Learning to live with Covid and how it may affect your student experience

The UK Government has set out its plan for 'living with Covid'. Jump to what you're looking for below: 

Covid vaccination

We encourage all students to take up vaccination against Covid-19 provided by the NHS. This includes international students - anybody aged 12 or over in the UK is eligible for the Covid-19 vaccination for free, regardless of their nationality or immigration status. 

Getting vaccinated

There's more information on Covid and other vaccinations on MyPort. Many appointments are available across the city at the St James' Hospital site in Milton, as well as local pharmacies. Find an appointment on the NHS website.

International students

International students travelling to England from another country should consult the latest government guidance.

 

Covid testing

Most people can no longer get free Covid testing from the NHS.

Instead, you can buy tests from shops and pharmacies, including online.

You might also be able to get free tests if you’re eligible. You can find out who can get a free Covid test and how to get one on the NHS website.

Testing positive for Covid

If you’re unwell with a short term illness and have to miss a teaching session as a result, you don't need to inform us. If you aren't able to attend classes for longer than a week, you should request an authorised absence.

Wellbeing support

If you want to speak to someone about your experiences, or are finding coping with Covid tough, you can get help through:

  • A free, anonymous chat service via the WhatsUp app, to talk to professional wellbeing staff
  • Free 20 minute advice sessions with wellbeing advisers. They are bookable on the day, on a first-come-first-served basis, and usually take place by phone.
  • Register for one-to-one help from the University's Student Wellbeing Service
  • Student Space from the mental health charity Student Minds, aims to help you find the support you need during coronavirus, including resources on wellbeing, and access to one-to-one support from trained volunteers.
  • Help in, or with, your accommodation via the Res Life Team on reslife@port.ac.uk or calling +44 (0)23 9284 3789.

Covid on campus

Safety measures on campus

Face masks and social distancing are no longer mandated, but we encourage you to be respectful of staff and students who may wish to continue to observe these measures. 

Masks will still be worn in some specialist areas such as labs and clinical settings. Staff and students will be told if masks are required when using these spaces.

Students who are immunosuppressed

If you have a medical condition that puts you at an increased risk of developing serious illness from catching Covid-19, it is advisable that you discuss this with your GP or a similar medical professional.

You should raise any concerns you may have with your personal tutor, being sure to follow any guidance or medical advice that was provided to you. You and your personal tutor should then work together to put in place sensible measures to allow you to safely attend campus for scheduled teaching, or consider other approaches such as blended or distance learning if other mitigations are not possible.