Nearly 160 Covid-19 cases reported at Sheffield's two universities as students return

In the first three days of this week, 116 students and two members of staff at the University of Sheffield tested positive.

New updated figures are to be published daily.

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Sheffield Hallam University said that it will release weekly figures.

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A spokeswoman said: “As of Monday, the university had 40 confirmed cases amongst our university community.

“These cases are not clustered within a particular student accommodation setting and none of the individuals have been on campus.

“All those students, and others in their household, are required to follow government guidelines and self-isolate.

“We are working closely with our partner accommodation providers to keep students safe, whilst providing a range of support for those self-isolating, including food packages, wellbeing support and access to medicine for those that need it.

“If any member of our student community suspects they have the virus or have had a positive test, they must follow official advice and should notify the university so that we can support them.

“Similar to other higher education institutions, the university intends to publish newly reported cases of Covid-19 on a weekly basis from Monday, October 5.”

A University of Sheffield spokeswoman said: “We recognise how difficult it is for students who are new to Sheffield and need to self-isolate because of Covid-19 cases.

“To make sure we are supporting students in the best way possible, we will contact all students who are self-isolating to check on their welfare and offer practical and emotional support.

“We will also make sure that all students know how to access our mental health and wellbeing services while isolating.

“For students staying in university accommodation, we will also do a daily check-in on students who are symptomatic, have tested positive or who have registered with our residence life team for a daily welfare call to find out how they are feeling and what their specific needs may be.

“We are in regular contact with Sheffield City Council, Public Health England and other partners to make sure that we are sharing information about the local situation and responding to the latest guidance.”

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