Update on current protests and unrest

We are aware of concerning rumours on social media that have circulated today, suggesting that parts of Reading could become the target of civil unrest in the wake of similar violence in parts of the UK.

I want to reassure you that we are in close contact with both the Thames Valley Police and local authorities, and there is currently no advice from official sources that there are any specific risks or activities in Reading town.

Still, these sometimes conflicting and unclear rumours of racist violence and harassment in our local community are deeply distressing.

We are also looking at contingency arrangements should Reading be subject to unrest and we will keep you fully informed of any new information. Please also keep a close eye on local news sources such as BBC Berkshire, and official advice from Thames Valley Police.

We are committed to ensuring all students, staff and visitors can feel safe and welcomed here in our University community. We will continue to maintain our visible, 24-7 Security Presence on the University Estate. We ask colleagues to be alert and to report any incidents of hate or harassment.

We will also share this information with our student community through the Me@Reading platform and through the student app. We have received a small number of enquiries from international students about their travel and safety and we are responding to those students directly.

This is an anxious time, so please do seek support if you need it: speak to a Wellbeing Peer supporter, talk to your line manager about your own situation or access other support by visiting our Staff Wellbeing Hub. You can also seek support from the BAME Staff Network.

Most of all, it is important that we show solidarity as a community, looking out for one another, and as the Vice-Chancellor reiterated on Monday, there is no tolerance in our University community for harassment and violence. Reading’s diversity is its strength.

Dr Richard Messer, Chief Strategy Officer & University Secretary