Bridgend College CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) Update

Page last updated 30/11/21 (10:11)

This page contains our latest information and frequently asked questions relating to coronavirus. It is important that you understand what is expected of you whilst you are on campus, to ensure that everyone remains safe and well.

UPDATES ISSUED TO STAFF AND STUDENTS

Students should regularly check both their college and personal email accounts for any updates. Updates will also be issued via our official college social media accounts, our student app and this website. You can also find the latest information and advice on coronavirus on Welsh Government’s website.

Q&A:

Do I need to wear a face covering?

Face coverings are required in all indoor spaces where physical distancing cannot be maintained. This is a temporary, precautionary measure for the remainder of this term as a result of the evolving changes relating to the new COVID-19 Omicron variant. Please also continue to wash your hands regularly and use the hand sanitisers provided across campuses.

If you are medically exempt from wearing a face covering, you must request a college exemption pass (if you do not already have one) which must be worn on your lanyard. You can request one here..

What type of face covering should I use?

There are many types of face coverings available but the College strongly recommends the use of a reusable, 3-layered face covering.

A face covering should:

cover your nose and mouth while allowing you to breathe comfortably
fit comfortably but securely against the side of your face
be secured to the head with ties or ear loops
be able to be washed with other items of laundry, unless disposable

Guidance on how to make your own face covering is available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-wear-and-make-a-cloth-face-covering/how-to-wear-and-make-a-cloth-face-covering

How can I help reduce the risk of spreading the virus when using my face covering?

wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser
avoid wearing your face covering on your neck or forehead
avoid touching the part of the face covering in contact with your mouth and nose
never allow others to touch or use your face covering
avoid placing your face covering on tables or other shared surface

To take your face covering off safely, you should:

only handle the straps, ties or clips
dispose of it carefully in a general waste bin and do not recycle, if single-use
place in the wash with other laundry, if reusable
then wash/sanitise your hands

What happens if I am exempt from wearing a face covering?

If you are medically exempt from wearing a face covering, you must request a college exemption pass (if you do not already have one) which must be worn on your lanyard. You can request one here.

Further guidance on exemptions can be found on the Welsh Government website.

Are Lateral Flow Tests (LFTs) available?

The Welsh Government and Public Health Wales have made lateral flow devices (LFDs) available for college students and staff. We have a good supply of testing packs at each campus along with instructions on how to use the test and how to submit your results. The Welsh Government are asking students and staff to test twice-weekly (two to three days apart) for the first few weeks of term, to ensure that we reduce the risk of transmission wherever possible.

If you are able to, please consider using a lateral flow device before attending college this September. Testing kits can be collected free of charge from local community pharmacies or from college campuses.

What action is the College taking?

We continue to follow all advice and guidance from the Welsh Government. Areas are risk assessed to ensure that our staff and students are able to stay safe whilst on campus.

How do I report symptoms or tell you I am awaiting or have received test results?

If you have any Coronavirus symptoms or test positive for the virus, it is important that you let us know as soon as possible by completing our notification form: www.bridgend.ac.uk/covidnotification

If you develop symptoms, are waiting for a test, awaiting test results or you have received test results, please let us know immediately by completing our notification form here: www.bridgend.ac.uk/covidnotification

Should I self-isolate?

Following the successful widespread rollout of the Coronavirus vaccination, requirements and rules around who needs to self-isolate, when and for how long have changed. Please take some time to familiarise yourself with the current requirements and follow any instructions you are given from the Public Health Wales Test, Trace and Protect (TTP) team.

Coronavirus vaccination

All adults, along with all 16 and 17-year-olds in Wales, have now been offered a Coronavirus vaccination. This is great news and we know that the vaccine is a key element of reducing both hospital admissions and further deaths.

If you have not yet taken up the invitation to receive your vaccination and wish to do so, you can book your vaccine by contacting the relevant health board based on where you live.

Bridgend, Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil

Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board