Coronavirus (Covid-19) Update
The health and safety of our residents is very important to us. Following the latest Government advice, and with an increasing number of people being infected, we want to share with you our plans for preventing and managing any infections at our properties.
What is coronavirus (Covid-19)?
Covid-19 is a flu-like illness that is caused by a virus (coronavirus). For those that catch this virus, it mainly affects their lungs and airways. Symptoms are like those of seasonal flu, including a persistent dry cough, high temperature and tiredness. Some patients have also reported a runny nose, sore throat and general aches and pains.
The NHS website has all the latest information regarding symptoms and what to do if you think you have the illness: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/.
What is our coronavirus (Covid 19) plans?
Our plans fall into two categories
1) How we can help prevent the transmission of the illness
2) What we will do if a case is suspected/confirmed
How to prevent transmission of the virus
We have increased the frequency of cleaning in all public areas, and where available are including the use of anti-bacterial products. Our Hospitality Teams receive regular updates on how to spot signs of the illness and what to do if infection is suspected.
Whilst we have taken these actions to help prevent transmission, it remains very important that you do everything that you can to prevent the illness spreading. In line with advice from the NHS and Public Health England we recommend that you do the following:
Do:
- wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
- always wash your hands when you get home or into work
- use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
- cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
- put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
- avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of coronavirus
- only travel on public transport if you need to
- avoid social activities, such as going to pubs, restaurants, theatres and cinemas
- avoid events with large groups of people
- use phone, online services, or apps to contact your GP surgery or other NHS services
Don’t:
- do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
- do not have visitors to your home, including friends and family
You can also help to prevent the spread of the virus by keeping your flat, including any shared areas, clean. Antibacterial sprays can be used on appropriate surfaces. Please do not let rubbish build up, bags should be taken to the bin store area regularly.
For the most up to date advice visit the NHS website.
What you should do if you suspect that you have coronavirus?
If you develop symptoms of coronavirus the latest advice is that you should self-isolate for 7 days. You do not need to go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. There is no need to contact 111 to tell them that you’re staying at home.
- If you are self-isolating, please follow the advice below in line with the Public Health England’s recommendations:Stay in your flat unless told otherwise by health authorities.
- If your symptoms get worse, you can’t cope with them at home, or they don’t get better in seven days, use the 111 online coronavirus service. If you can’t get help online, call 111 or, in an emergency, call 999.
- Do not go into work, university, lectures or public areas, and don’t use public transport or taxis until you’re told it’s safe to do so.
- If you have someone bringing supplies or have ordered shopping online, make sure the items are left at reception or outside of your room.
- Stay away from friends or flatmates.
- If you’ve been provided with a facemask, you should wear it when you may come into contact with other people.
- Make sure all your rubbish is disposed of properly by tying it up in two plastic bin bags
We would also advise the following:
- Keep in regular contact with friends and family by phone.
- Avoid using common areas in your accommodation (apart from your shared kitchen).
- In the event of a fire alarm, please evacuate the building as you would normally, but where possible, keep at least six feet away from other people.
- Please be aware that we’ll only carry out maintenance in your flat if it’s a safety risk to you or others
What we will do if there is a confirmed case of coronavirus at one of our properties?
We are constantly reviewing the latest guidance and should a case of coronavirus be confirmed at one of our properties, please be assured that our team will follow all relevant recommendations.
If a case is confirmed, we will organise a professional deep clean of any areas that the affected person may have come into contact with, as directed by the relevant authorities.
Where possible, we will relocate anyone that may be vulnerable due to an existing respiratory illness or immune system condition.
We will liaise with the relevant Universities to ensure that they are aware of any developments and will work with them to provide you with the best available help and advice.
Recently returned from travelling?
The advice regarding coronavirus remains the same whether you have travelled or not. If you display any of the symptoms, please self-isolate for 7 days and follow the advice as detailed in ‘How to Prevent transmission of the virus’.
Is there the option to end my tenancy early?
If you are currently living with us and wish to end your tenancy early, our usual 2019/20 Cancellation Policy applies.
If you wish to end your tenancy due to health reasons, please email your request to info@mansionstudent.co.uk explaining the reasons why. Your request will be reviewed, and a response sent to you within 2 working days.
Can I cancel a future booking?
Outside of your 3 day cooling off period, our usual 2020/21 Cancellation Policy applies.
If you wish to end your tenancy due to health reasons, or if you are no longer able to travel, please email your request to info@mansionstudent.co.uk explaining the reasons why. Your request will be reviewed, and a response sent to you.