Russell Group response to APPG for Students inquiry on the impact of Covid-19 on students’ tuition and accommodation

20 January 2021

The Russell Group today (20 January 2021) published its submission to the inquiry on the impact of Covid-19 on students’ tuition and accommodation launched by the APPG for Students.

Russell Group universities are committed to maintaining an outstanding teaching and learning experience and world-leading research, and welcome the opportunity to contribute to this timely and important inquiry launched by the APPG for Students.

Commenting, Dr Tim Bradshaw, Chief Executive of the Russell Group, said:

“From the start of this pandemic, Russell Group universities have worked hard to provide the best possible experience for students. They have invested significantly in Covid-secure campuses to complement online learning with in-person teaching where possible, and re-designed their learning, teaching and assessments for this academic year to ensure that students are still able to meet the learning outcomes set out for their course.

“Given the measures our universities have taken, we are confident that the majority of students will still be able to achieve the learning outcomes set out for their course of study, despite the different modes of teaching delivery and methods of learning this year.

“In recognition of the uncertainty, strain and mental distress being experienced by many students this year, our universities have also developed a range of initiatives to support students’ wellbeing and learning experience, including delivering mental health and wellbeing provision online and through telephone counselling, as well as ensuring access to library resources and other digital materials.

“Our members know students continue to face stress and disruption due to Covid, and all are looking at ways to provide additional financial support for those in need or unable to access accommodation. We would encourage the Government to consider what additional financial support they could offer to students, such as a specific Covid-hardship fund for the most affected students to complement the support being provided by universities.”

The full Russell Group submission to the APPG for Students can be found here:

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