Scots students allowed to return home on long-term basis

Students have been told they can return home from university accommodation on a long-term basis, as long as they follow rules on self-isolating.

Updated guidance from the Scottish Government sets out what those who are studying higher education can do if they wish to change households.

Students have been asked to follow self-isolating rules and not use public transport if they decide to permanently return to another home, while still saying it is an “offence” to undertake short stays without a “reasonable” excuse.

Higher Education Minister Richard Lochhead said: “We would encourage students to remain living in their current accommodation where they are able to, so they can continue to benefit from both a blend of digital and in-person learning, where that is possible and the opportunity to engage with others, within the restrictions, to build new networks and to make new friends.

“However, we know that many students may be struggling with the prospect of not being able to return home to visit family and other support networks, especially if it is the first time in their life they have been away from home.

“Knowing what to consider in deciding whether to return home will help support wellbeing and enable students to make informed choices, but it is important to stress that adjusting to life away from home is always challenging.”

Current guidance states that people should self-isolate at home for 10 days if you have symptoms of Covid-19 or tested positive, or 14 days if living with someone who has.

Mr Lochhead has written to principals and student accommodation provider networks to set out the new guidance.

It has been developed in consultation with NUS Scotland and Universities Scotland.

The guidance sets out that students should “consider how you may benefit from in-person learning” if returning home on a permanent basis.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced measures which came into force on Wednesday which ban indoor visits between households.

Students had previously been asked by university bosses to not visit pubs and restaurants this weekend as part of efforts to limit the spread of Covid-19.

NUS Scotland president Matt Crilly said: “Today’s guidance provides welcome clarity to the students in halls, who will be considering their next steps.

“We welcome that students will be able to return home on a permanent basis.

“However, we are disappointed that the government continues to talk up in-person teaching, which may keep students on campus and increase risks unnecessarily.”

Gerry McCormac, convener of Universities Scotland, said: “The Scottish Government’s additional guidance about households puts the emphasis on staying within existing households and avoiding overnight stays elsewhere for now, but not at the expense of an individual’s wellbeing.

“It also makes clear that a change of household is possible but offers guidance to limit this to cases where a change then becomes the person’s main or only residence on a long-term basis.”