As you will know, the Government has placed Kent in Tier 4 which means that all of those living in the county are subject to tightened COVID-19 restrictions.

I am writing to let you know that, if you have not yet travelled home for Christmas, we have now had Government confirmation that you are still able to do so. This is the case whatever tier your family home is in.

Once you are home, you will be counted as part of your family household.

You will also be aware that additional travel restrictions are in place for those seeking to travel to and from the UK. If you are planning to travel outside of the UK, please check whether your plans will be affected by this.

If your plans have to change and you are not able to travel home, please be assured that we will be here to support you over the vacation period. We will also update the Student Coronavirus webpages later today with more information about Tier 4 restrictions and what they mean for those of us living in affected areas.

The Government will be reviewing the current situation on 30 December and we will update you shortly after.

Existing government guidelines indicate that plans for a staggered return to campus after the Christmas vacation can remain in place along with the offer of asymptomatic testing for students and staff on both Canterbury and Medway campuses from 4 January 2021.

Whether you are at home for the vacation or remaining at your term-time address, we are here for you. If you have any concerns or queries, please contact CovidSupport@kent.ac.uk.

Thank you for working together to keep our University community safe.