Last week we brought colleagues from across the University together with representatives from the SU, Bath and North East Somerset Council (B&NES) and the University Medical Centre for a Brexit Contingency Planning Workshop.
The aim of the exercise was to assess how the University would respond to a range of scenarios that could be precipitated by the UK’s withdrawal from the EU without a deal.
This was a valuable opportunity to test our preparations so far, to identify any gaps and to ensure we are putting students and staff at the centre of our plans.
One of my main reflections is how important it was to hear about the work that has already happened in different teams across the University. By coming together as a team, colleagues from HR, Estates, Student Services, Security, Procurement and many others were able to share information about contingency plans and ask questions of each other to ensure we are as joined-up as possible.
At the event, we heard about the immigration advice sessions arranged for staff members, advice being sent to students on placements and Erasmus programmes, planning for procurement and supply chain arrangements already undertaken and much more. We were also really grateful for the contribution of external stakeholders from the NHS and B&NES, who are key partners in all our business continuity arrangements.
We also identified opportunities to strengthen ways of working which we will implement in the weeks ahead. Our main focus continues to be supporting members of our community, please keep an eye on our webpages for new information.
Regards,
Professor Steve Egan
Vice-President (Implementation)