Student staff are unable to work after Lincoln Students’ Union have closed all venues and events for the next 12 weeks.
This comes after governmental advice last Tuesday encouraging social distancing amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Yvonne Thompson, Lincoln Students’ Union communications manager, said: “We understand that closing our venues would have been a troubling message for our members and staff groups to receive, but the well-being and safety of students and all staff are at the forefront of the decisions.
“The SU remain committed to supporting all staff at this difficult time through our ongoing communications with them.”
The SU employ many students part-time attending the University of Lincoln.
With the closure of their venues, the student staff are no longer required to work.
A lot of these students rely on their wages to help with living costs and rent.
Katie Bates, student staff member at The Swan and The Barge, said: “I feel extremely sad about the SU closing, but they have done the right thing to help social distancing.
“Not working will affect me massively, as I don’t receive enough student loan to cover my rent. I am now having to move home to ensure I don’t get into debt.”
Laura McGregor, student staff member at The Swan, said: “I heavily rely on my income from my job. It covers my general living.
“I am now having to choose whether to leave my boyfriend here, as well as the resources such as the library and rehearsal studios to go home. Alternatively, I will try to find another job here that will allow me to stay. It’s going to be hard.”
To help student staff amid the closure, the SU will partially compensate student staff until Easter.
For more information, visit the SU website.
