The media reports around the conflicts and ongoing wars around the world are distressing for us all. We are also very mindful that there have been and continue to be other distressing global events and disasters including conflict, earthquakes, floods.
We recognise that some members of the BU community may be impacted by these events, or have family or friends connected to one or more of the regions impacted. You may find you are experiencing increased anxiety.
We want to remind you that BU’s support services are available for any student or staff member affected by global events.
At BU, we value freedom of speech and our inclusive environment where respect for one another is at the heart of our values. This is why we have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of abuse or hate crime. We will investigate any reported incident in line with our hate crime policy and take action against any student or staff member who is deemed to have breached our Conduct, Welfare or Harassment policy and procedures.
Please do be respectful of members of our community, showing extra care for one another, especially those who may be directly affected by these events.
It is important to come together as a community and support one another so please do continue to check on the wellbeing of your friends and colleagues who may be affected by global events.
Travel advice
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has amended its travel advice and advises against all travel to parts of Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories and against all travel to Lebanon. It also advises against all travel or all but essential travel to parts of Ukraine. For full advice by-country, please continue to consult the FCDO web pages.
If you have questions or concerns over staff or student travel, then these must immediately be flagged to your line manager or Programme Leader.
Support for students
If you are a student affected by any of the current global situations and feel that it is impacting your studies or research, please talk to your programme team. There is a range of resources to support your health and wellbeing on the website, including contact details for our services, guidance for looking after your wellbeing and a comprehensive list of wellbeing resources. Our Faith & Reflection service also offers a space for quiet space on campus. If you would like specific help, please get in contact with the AskBU team. If you are in need of financial support, please check our financial support and hardship pages. You may also wish to look at our exceptional circumstances policy.
Support for staff
If you are affected by any ongoing global events, please talk to your line manager about any impact on you and your work. You can also access a range of resources from the Health, Safety and Wellbeing team on the staff intranet, including details of how to access the Employee Assistance Programme and information about supplementary external support available. The Faith & Reflection service supports staff and students and offers a space for quiet space on campus. If there is further help you need, please get in touch with HR and/or the Health, Safety and Wellbeing team.
If you have any questions that have not been answered above, please contact [email protected].
Respect at BU
Respecting ourselves, others and the environment is at the heart of our BU community. Our BU Respect campaign continues to showcase what makes BU great, as well as promote how together we can tackle social challenges now and for the future - working towards a more sustainable, inclusive and health environment.