Julie Barker of Julie Barker Associates, who is also a non-executive director of CUBO (College & University Business Officers) and a former chair of The University Caterers Organisation (TUCO), says frontline services in HE remain vital.
“Where possible, and where realistic, universities have been encouraging students to return home but it is clear that many overseas students will not be able to leave the UK under the emergency measures that are unrolling across flight cancellations and the closure of borders.
“And, many staff working in HE establishments will not be able to work from home as frontline services need to be maintained to cater and care for those students who are remaining on campuses, or in private student accommodation.
“Right now, staff availability is impacting on keeping buildings and outlets open, with contingency plans coming into play and facilities moving to main buildings only in order to keep services open.
“This may change further as students are encouraged to self-isolate but it will obviously be vital to keep essential services and supplies available.”
She says the business blow to universities themselves will hit in the summer when the use of facilities for conferences, banquets, study tours and language schools for students from abroad will not be possible if current restrictions remain in place.
She added: “Institutions are already looking at how to mitigate these losses exploring how to creatively utilise their assets - not just now, but as time progresses over the coming weeks and months.
“That includes looking at how we can support those who are isolated, already, we are seeing localised reaching out and creative thinking in difficult circumstances, it is important we are all adaptive.”