Rev Richard Coles sends his support to staff and students

The University of Northampton’s Chancellor, Reverend Richard Coles, has sent a video message of support to all staff and students.

The message was posted on his Twitter profile, which has more than 315,000 followers. In it, he explained some of the amazing work students and staff are doing during the pandemic.

Message to staff and students at ⁦@UniNorthants⁩ from its brutally self-barbered Chancellor. pic.twitter.com/KkqJhuEuUb

— Richard Coles (@RevRichardColes) April 23, 2020

Rev Coles said: “These testing times have brought the very best out of the University’s staff and students, who are showing incredible resilience and demonstrating their commitment to the communities they live in.

“I’ve been amazed, but not at all surprised by the way the University has leapt into action to support the community.

“More than 200 nursing students have answered the government’s call to step up and help the health service by offering their services to the NHS to fight the coronavirus pandemic.

“The University has also provided 300 free rooms in its halls of residences to house healthcare staff, hospital patients and those in social care, easing the pressure on the NHS during the Coronavirus pandemic. Free parking at Waterside campus has also been provided for Northampton General Hospital staff and those working for St Andrew’s Healthcare

“There have been tales of numerous staff and students who have also signed up to be part of the NHS volunteer army, helping those in need in their home communities.

Then there’s student Ben Eva, who has donated £450 in food vouchers to fellow first year students who are living in halls of residence at Waterside campus.”