The current coronavirus pandemic has made many people’s future uncertain. It is definitely taking its toll on people's mental health. However, for university students it feels like they have been left to fend for themselves amongst the chaos. A lot of people believe this is some sort of long holiday for students and they are overlooking the effects that COVID-19 is actually having. Although the daily work load and exam pressure (some have moved online) has been lifted, the stress factors for students haven’t gone away, they’ve just changed.

Now more than ever University students across the country are suffering and don’t feel listened to.  In march it was decided by the Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson, that all GCSEs and A-level exams which were due to take place in May and June would be cancelled. However there has not been the same attitude towards those currently studying a higher education degree and students are still expected to do exams and submissions online, with some universities not even granting extensions longer than a few days, despite the circumstances.  

It is no shock that students have faced great disruption due to COVID-19 and have not received the teaching they expected, despite still being expected to pay their full fees. Many students have had to move back home with their family due to campus’ being shut and some student accommodations closing. They also have no access to libraries and other university facilities which many students rely on to complete their work - especially those from low income backgrounds.

Students now also face added stress and anxiety of waiting to see if their university will cancel face-to-face lectures until Summer 2021 and continue online. University of Manchester and the University of Cambridge have been the first to confirm they will keep their lectures online for at least one semester. However, its expected many more universities will follow in an effort to comply with social distancing measures.

It is a waiting game to see how this would apply to students going into their final year. Would they be expected to do a year completely online despite it being the most important and vital year of their education? Or perhaps those studying practical courses, will they be made to do study from their bedroom for another semester? 

In April a student at Loughborough University, Ben Brown aged just 22 committed suicide after writing his mother a letter. His mother stated that the lockdown was 'overwhelming' for him and he was suffering with the stress of his final year.  

Universities Minister Michelle Donelan said: “I know this is a very difficult and anxious time for students, universities and higher education staff, and we are working determinedly with the sector and my counterparts across the UK, to support them during this time.” However, having spoken to students at various Universities they do not believe that there is enough support in place. 

Students deserve better, clearer and more consistent support from universities and society.