A leading university has become the first in the UK to ban students from living on campus if they have not been vaccinated against COVID-19.
According to an Evening Standard report, Hartpury University and College has warned it will be a “mandatory requirement” for students living in halls of residence to prove they have had at least one dose. From September, unvaccinated students will also be prohibited from taking part in sports and social activities.
In a letter sent to students and parents on 16 August, Claire Whitworth, vice-principal at Hartpury University and College, wrote: “Our expectation is that all eligible students will engage and take up their vaccinations as soon as they are given the opportunity.”
The policy has led to some complaints from parents and students. One parent told the publication her daughter’s “dreams were in tatters”. “I’m not an anti-vaxxer but I believe her immune system is strong enough to deal with the virus. Why should she have to prove her medical history?” she argued.
A Department for Education spokesperson said: “The government currently has no plans to require the use of the NHS COVID Pass for access to learning in higher education, however universities are autonomous and able to determine their own arrangements to keep students and staff as safe as possible. We encourage all students to take up the offer of both vaccine doses."
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