A joint message from UWE Bristol and Avon and Somerset Police

At UWE Bristol, we recognise we are part of a bigger community, and that we each have a responsibility to protect that community.

Sadly, over the last week, Avon and Somerset Police have issued a large number of fines and official warnings to students on our campuses, for disregarding the University rules, breaking the law, and putting our community at risk.

These were in response to students not following the rule of six, and for having guests and parties in accommodation.

Under the Student Conduct Policy, disciplinary routes could lead to students being evicted from student accommodation and/or suspension, if they continue to put themselves and others at risk.

The University is working closely with Avon and Somerset Police to challenge this behaviour and active enforcement is being implemented across our campuses.

PC Simon Topps of Avon and Somerset Police, said: "In the past week we've regrettably needed to fine 21 students for breaching coronavirus regulations. Students living in densely populated accommodation present a greater risk of spreading the virus should they become infected. Some will live with, or in close proximity to, those who could be significantly affected by the virus. There are also vulnerable members of society who students share the surrounding community with.

“Our approach throughout has been to support students in following the regulations by engaging with them, explaining the law and giving encouragement to do the right thing. We will continue this approach and provide an opportunity to disperse or accept a warning. However, where people are knowingly breaching the regulations there to protect us all, we will move more quickly to enforcement by issuing a fine.”

To support our students to follow the rules, there is now extra police presence on campus to monitor breaches of Covid-19 regulations and issue fines if needed (please find more detailed information on fines below).

These actions are taken in the best interests of our students and staff, the wider community and the NHS. We all have a duty to adhere to the law, and to keep ourselves and others safe.

The Covid-19 pandemic poses a huge risk to our community, and we will only defeat it by working together. We thank those who continue to follow the University’s and the Government’s Covid-19 guidance.

Information on fines

• £200 for participating in a gathering of more than six people
• £200 for failing to wear a face covering inside a ‘relevant place’ including in shops, bars and at transport hubs
• £1,000 for failing to self-isolate after testing positive for coronavirus or having been told you have been in contact with someone who has
• £10,000 for organising or facilitating a gathering of more than thirty people in a private dwelling or on public outdoor space.

Guidance and advice for students on campus