Message of support following flooding in Nepal

On behalf of colleagues at York St John University, I want to express how deeply saddened we are by the impact of the catastrophic flooding in the Rasuwa district and the Nepal-China border area. The unfolding tragedy faced by communities in the region is felt by us all. 

We have a significant community of Nepali students and staff at York St John, and this will be a very worrying time for anyone affected, particularly those who have family and friends there.   

The flash flooding has caused widespread damage. Buildings, roads, other transport and communications infrastructure have been severely damaged. The Nepalese authorities and emergency services are responding.  

For those worried about any family members in Nepal, you can find information on the UK government website or via the British Red Cross.  The Nepalese government has established a toll-free emergency Nepalese language number, 1234, and a dedicated hotline 1144 accessible in Nepal. 

Support for staff and students  

Students are encouraged to access support from our Wellbeing and Wellness teams via the Student Hub.     

In York, our University Chaplain, Reverend Jane Speck and her team are available via  chaplaincy@yorksj.ac.uk to support those of all faiths and none.   

Our London Faith Advisers Calebmark Onyemaobi, Assistant Chaplain  c.onyemaobi@yorksj.ac.uk   and and Kalā-Nidhi Dasā, Hindu Faith Advisor k.nidhidasa@yorksj.ac.uk. are also available. 

Students struggling to meet submission deadlines can apply for exceptional circumstances extensions. Please log into e:Vision and visit the Exceptional Circumstances and Extensions section. If you need support with completing the online form, please contact the Student Hub. 

Colleagues affected by the ongoing situation will be supported by line managers and can also access our Employee Assistance Programme with free, 24/7 advice and support.      

Ways to support 

Project Hope and Oxfam have launched emergency appeals to help those affected by the disaster.  

Our thoughts are with all those impacted by these events and we will continue to support any students or staff affected by the crisis.  

Professor Karen Bryan   
Vice Chancellor, York St John University