You will be aware there is an outbreak of meningitis in the Canterbury area, and that the university is affected.<\/p>\n
I am deeply saddened to share the news that\u00a0one\u00a0of our students has\u00a0died. This is devastating news, and our thoughts are with\u00a0the student\u2019s\u00a0family, friends and all those who knew them.\u00a0We are also aware that there are some of our\u00a0community\u00a0in hospital, who are also in our thoughts.<\/p>\n
You\u00a0will\u00a0have seen the\u00a0letter from the UK Health Security Agency\u00a0(UKHSA)\u00a0providing\u00a0precautionary guidance<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 please read this carefully.\u00a0We are working closely with,\u00a0and following advice from,\u00a0the UKHSA to ensure that all\u00a0appropriate steps\u00a0are being taken and that anyone who is\u00a0identified as\u00a0at risk is contacted directly.<\/p>\n Things are fast moving, and in light of the developing situation we have made the decision that there will be no in-person assessments this week. Your School will be in touch with further details about alternative arrangements.<\/p>\n Campus will remain open, but please keep an eye on your emails as we will continue to provide updates.<\/p>\n Our priority is to\u00a0support those closest to the students\u00a0affected. Out of respect for them, we will not be sharing further details at this time.\u00a0I also ask that we respect the privacy of the families and those affected, particularly on social media.<\/p>\n Events like this\u00a0affect\u00a0people in\u00a0different ways, and I recognise that many\u00a0of us will\u00a0feel shocked, distressed or in need of support. Support services are available for both students and staff, and I encourage anyone who needs to talk to reach out.<\/p>\n