Remember, Remember Your Mask In November

Whilst SERC are thankful to all staff and students for supporting safety measures in the College in regards to COVID-19, however we must stay vigilant not drop our guard as the fight against the virus continues.

For that reason, we continue to ask our students and staff for their full co-operation in the months ahead.

John Gault Head of Health and Safety at SERC said “The wearing of face masks is mandatory in certain places like shops or on public transport and within ALL SERC public places such as corridors and stairwells to help control the spread of coronavirus. The wearing of face masks was introduced as Coronavirus usually spreads by droplets from coughs, sneezes and speaking.  This is why social distancing, regular hand hygiene, and covering coughs and sneezes is important in controlling the spread of the virus.”  

However, speaking about those who are exempt from wearing facemasks John said “Please be patient and understanding because masks are not straightforward for everyone. Some people may find covering their face very difficult, or even impossible to cope with, and for those of us with existing mental health problems, impairment, or a disability it can be especially challenging. To help ease this problem the college via the Students’ Union have recently introduced a “Lanyard Scheme” to help identify students who are exempt from wearing a face mask. Students who wish to make use of the lanyard scheme should get in contact with one of the SU staff”

Catherine Shipman, Student Engagement Manager, said, “This initiative has been driven by the Students’ Union team at SERC.  The lanyards are an opt in scheme and aim to help some of the anxiety many of us are experiencing during these unprecedented times. The team chose the colour grey so they would be more subtle, but students and staff know what it means for the wearer here in SERC"

The SU staff to contact about the lanyard scheme;   

• Lisburn Campus – Catherine Shipman – cshipman@serc.ac.uk  
• Downpatrick and Newcastle Campus - Anna Leahy – aleahy@serc.ac.uk  
• Bangor, Newtownards and Holywood Campus – Ross Currie – rcurrie@serc.ac.uk