University of Northampton opens its doors at student halls for patients and healthcare staff

The University of Northampton is providing free rooms to house healthcare staff and patients to ease the pressure on the NHS during the Coronavirus pandemic.

300 vacant rooms at the Spencer Perceval halls in Boughton Green Road will be made available to hospital patients and those in social care that do not have the virus. This will free-up space for those who require oxygen or critical care during the current crisis.

The university is now also offering free parking at the Waterside Campus to Northampton General Hospital staff.

The university has also made a similar arrangement with St. Andrews Healthcare, due to start in two weeks’ time.

Staff working on call at the mental healthcare facility will have the choice of staying in a room at the Sunley Hotel at Waterside – or in one of 100 rooms in Bassett Lowke hall located at the University’s St. George’s Avenue site.

University of Northampton vice chancellor Professor Nick Petford said: “We’ve heard many stories over the past few days showing true humanitarian spirit during the unprecedented challenges Covid-19 is setting us.

“Many of these involve our outstanding healthcare sector staff who show the sort of altruism and dedication most of us can only marvel at.

“With more challenges ahead and many more new and much needed healthcare professionals due to join the fight, we gladly and gratefully open our doors to them.”