To help provide a safe and inclusive on campus experience, Staffordshire University, and Staffordshire University Students’ Union support the Sunflower Lanyard scheme, a national Government initiative.
Under COVID-19 guidance from the UK Government, some people are exempt from wearing face coverings. To support our staff and students, last year Staffordshire University joined The Invisible Disabilities Sunflower lanyard scheme, making sunflower lanyards available for all staff and students to allow members of our community signify that they are exempt from face coverings in a discreet way – should they choose to do so.
While the scheme is not a requirement by law, our University has taken the decision to ask all students, staff and visitors to work with us in doing everything we can to keep our University community safe during the pandemic.
Our brilliant and friendly COVID ambassadors are there to ensure that everyone coming into the University is following the rules for the wearing of face coverings.
In relation to anyone exempt from wearing a face covering, we are asking you to wear your sunflower lanyard, or carry another form of exemption with you when you are on campus.
If you have an exemption, you will never be asked for any personal information, but when on campus please be ready to show evidence that you are following the government exemption declaration if you choose not to wear a sunflower lanyard.
We’ve put posters up across the University showing all areas where face coverings are required on campus.
We’d like to thank the vast majority of people who are adhering to the policy and emphasise that if people repeatedly choose not to wear a face covering as required, refuse to wear a face covering when requested to do so by one of our COVID ambassadors or staff, or refuse to show their Sunflower Lanyard or other exemption when asked, then those individuals will be asked to leave our buildings.
It is vitally important that we all work together to keep our campuses COVID-secure. If you don’t have an exemption, please bring your face covering and wear it in all areas outlined in the official guidance at all times.
And finally, if you are approached by one of our COVID ambassadors, please follow their advice and treat them with the respect they deserve for carrying out this crucial role and keeping us all safe. Find out more about the Sunflower Lanyard Scheme