Environment submissions database

Over the COVID-19 period, the University has taken all possible measures to ensure teaching activities were maintained, delivered and assessed in accordance with government guidance. Our programmes of research (for both staff and students) were maintained, and practical and financial support was provided where possible. There were however consequences for our research environment and impact activities. In terms of impact, the pandemic has limited our opportunities to deliver planned or expected activities with health and social care partners, police, schools and other public sector agencies. In some cases, we have found that key impact contacts in industry and business partners were furloughed, particularly in the hospitality and aviation sectors. It also limited exposure of our research as the Communications teams focused their resources on an ongoing campaign of internal communications to staff and students. The College of College of Nursing, Midwifery and Healthcare - a major provider of healthcare and social work courses in west and greater London - had major pressures and diverted resources to support partners in the NHS and social care sectors. A number of funded projects (e.g. on hydration of care home residents ; health and well-being of people with disabilities) were extended with agreement from the funders; researcher users not always available. Laboratories were closed in the Spring/Summer 2020 period, delaying experimental projects, including doctorates. About 20% of our doctoral students were affected in some way; some students were unable to join us physically in time; some with caring responsibilities or working in the NHS, had to temporarily suspend their studies. Some were unable to access participants or research sites, which required project amendments. A risk register was kept, and support put in place to assist progression; including allowing students to extend their registration period by up to 6 months, and also providing additional financial support for scholarship students who needed extensions. Conference travel, both within the UK and internationally, was halted reducing the opportunities for collaborations and transferring most research events to virtual platforms. It should also be noted that our researchers responded inventively to mitigate this. For example, a three-day conference planned at UWL in September 2020, was held as an online research event with community building activities, over a period of ten weeks in the summer 2020. Throughout the pandemic, UWL continuously offered support, advice and guidance to all staff and students in respect of the virus itself; its impact on those with underlying health conditions; testing and vaccination; the safety of the working environment on campus and at home; mental and physical wellbeing and much more. A dedicated page was set up on the HR Portal with guidance and access to support (including an Employee Assistance Programme). Students were supported through practical help and support; loan of computers and other devices; and access to hardship funds.