Submitted by Harry Halls on Fri, 14/05/2021 - 12:07
In light of the UK Government starting to reduce travel restrictions from 17 May 2021 and following an internal review, travel overseas for the purpose of carrying out research or studying away (including fieldwork) will now normally be regarded as sufficient reason to travel by the University if evidence of necessity is included in the risk assessment and provided the following criteria are met:
1) You have completed all the risk assessment forms which must include:
- evidence that you have consulted in detail any FCDO advice
- evidence that you have researched the pandemic effects in the overseas country and checked any restrictions in place in the overseas country due to the pandemic and your ability to return to either UK or other country is not affected
- you have in place COVID 19 risk contingency plans for medical care and travel arrangements
- you have considered other risk factors relevant to your destination country e.g. the political or military situation, the impact of your research on locals, internal travel and accommodation
-
you have submitted these to your Department
2) You have provided evidence as to why your research/studies is necessary and why your physical presence is required overseas.
3) You have taken into account the need for any Covid-19 imposed quarantines or testing and subsequent additional costs as these will not be covered by University Travel Insurance.
4) You have valid insurance. The University holds Travel Insurance that is suitable and appropriate for trips and includes professional medical and security support to individuals and groups. One of the key risk issues is travel to countries which sit on the Government’s ‘Red’ list and the FCDO guidance is against ‘all travel’ or ‘all but essential travel’ reasons. Please also be aware that Cancellation/Curtailment costs relating to Covid-19 or Government regulations to such territories WILL NOT be covered. For further information please visit the Insurance website: https://www.insurance.admin.cam.ac.uk/insurance-guidance/travel-insurance
5) You have checked that travel insurance cover is sufficient for your trip. The University provides travel insurance for overseas business trips, which covers emergency medical expenses only. Certain governments or local authorities may demand full health insurance cover, especially for longer trips. Similarly to VISA requirements, it is the traveller's responsibility to consider such requirements when planning trips.