Update on police investigation
Tuesday, 05 February 2019
Dear colleagues,
Earlier today, we received the very sad news that Thames Valley Police had discovered a body in their search for Daniel Williams, our Computer Science student who has been missing since Thursday. We have not had a formal identification yet, but this is nevertheless a very difficult time for Daniel’s family and friends, as well as our wider community.
It is important that we have the opportunity to come together and support each other while we await further news. As such the University will be open on Wednesday, and teaching and other scheduled activities will take place. This provides our community with a sense of continuity and solidarity, but I fully understand if some colleagues and students do not feel able to participate. We all respond and react differently and any decision you make will be supported. If you are taking part in scheduled activities, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect – for example at the start of a lecture or a meeting – and to seek and offer support to each other.
If you would like someone to talk to, please do contact your line manager or use our Employee Assistance Programme, Confidential Care. This hotline provides a comprehensive range of support and advice to all colleagues. It is an independent and confidential service, available any time of day or night, 365 days a year.
The Police restrictions around the lake area have been removed. However, our Security Service will continue their normal overnight campus patrols, supported by the Police at least until the weekend. Our Security Service can be reached 24-hours a day in emergencies on 0118 378 6300 and on 0118 378 7799 for general enquiries. The team also provide a Chaperone Service for students.
If a student who feels worried or would like to talk to someone contacts you, please encourage them to get in touch with our Student Welfare Team. Our Chaplaincy Centre is also available to provide support to students and staff. Out of hours, the Samaritans provide a 24/7 hotline (dial 116 123) and students can also use Big White Wall, a free online community available 24 hours a day.
A message to students will follow separately.
Kind regards,
Robert
Professor Robert Van de Noort
Acting Vice-Chancellor