Table 5 Key findings and recommendations

Key findings

• Offering COVID-19 tests in university residences is viewed positively, with broad uptake and reach.

• Testing engagement is high (88%), compliance with twice-weekly testing is lower (46%).

• The concept of surge testing is seen to be an acceptable outbreak mitigation strategy.

• Regularly testing contacts of positive cases is perceived to be preferable to self-isolation.

• The concept of surge testing is seen to be an acceptable outbreak mitigation strategy.

• Relaxed social restrictions improve student satisfaction and mental health.

• Most students are compliant with residence-based COVID-19 social regulations but those who are not create challenges and stressors for peers and staff.

• Responding to the changing landscape of a pandemic is challenging for staff.

Key recommendations to maximise uptake, adherence and compliance

• Written communications for students should be briefer, empathetic, positive and persuasive but avoid punitive tone.

• Students require clear and specific rules outlining expectations around social distancing, mask wearing and socialising, with explanations for changes.

• Communications should be delivered consistently across all staff groups to avoid mixed messages.

• Timings for kit collection and sample drop-off need to be accessible around meals and academic commitments.

• Involving students in programme planning is essential to ensure procedures and communications match the needs of the student population.

• Involving staff with student-facing roles in programme planning is essential to establish clear lines of communication and to ensure procedures are practical and achievable.

• Student ambassadors are a useful mechanism for provision of peer-to-peer support and assistance with communications.

• Regular updates on testing uptake rates are valued by and motivate students.

• Normalising residence-based testing will be important for future uptake of surveillance testing during a pandemic.