Continuing Covid19 update

Continuing Covid19 update

by David Hewlett -
Number of replies: 0

These are very uncertain times and it is difficult to plan.  We continue to listen carefully to advice from our public health bodies, our churches, and in relation to teaching and learning from our partner universities and the QAA, Office for Students.  We are busy moving Easter schools to online forms of learning.  So far our universities and regulatory bodies have not given directions about academic programmes but we are expecting some information and guidance in a week.  In the meantime, as said before, we will be generous about extensions and will use special adverse circumstances procedures where we individuals or cohorts have been affected in their results.  We are not at liberty to make any changes until our universities give guidance.  We are consulting with academic reps about this and our plans for the summer.

In the meantime we have received our report from our Periodic External Review which was conducted by the CoE, the Methodist Church and Durham University last October.  The outcome is outstanding - a decision of unqualified confidence in our work.  This is a rare achievement and one that affirms the hard work of everyone.  We will be responding to the reports recommendations through the usual channels of governors and Academic Management Group.

Finally, we want to share some Well-being resources during Covid 19  

In this unprecedented time, it is highly likely that we will all experience some difficult moments in the days and weeks ahead. It will be important to remember to be gentle with ourselves, alongside asking for help when we need it. Establishing a rhythm to the day, including prayer and exercise is recognised as contributing to staying well physically and mentally. Whilst keeping in touch is vital, some days we may conclude we are ‘zoomed out’ and may need to give ourselves permission to prioritise self-care. 

As we journey thought the next few months, please remember:

·         To keep in touch with your personal tutor via email/Skype every 3-4 weeks.

·         The Chaplain is available chaplain@queens.ac.uk

·         Well-being Officer attwoode@queens.ac.uk

The websites below are highly recommended and contain good advice and helpful resources.

1.       NHS

https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/coronavirus-covid-19-staying-at-home-

2.       Mental Health UK

https://mentalhealth-uk.org/help-and-information/covid-19-and-your-mental-health/ 

3.       Anxiety UK Telephone Helpline

https://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/coronanxiety-support-resources/

Specific Guidance from the Methodist Church and the Church of England  

Methodist Church

https://www.methodist.org.uk/about-us/news/the-methodist-blog/coronavirus-taking-care-of-yourself-and-those-around-you/ 

Church of England

https://www.churchofengland.org/faith-action/mental-health-resources/supporting-good-mental-health/supporting-good-mental-health

The Tragedy and Congregations project

https://tragedyandcongregations.org.uk/2020/03/24/guidance-for-ministers-as-the-coronavirus-crisis-deepens/

 

 


(Edited by Simon Davies - original submission Tuesday, 31 March 2020, 9:16 AM)