Research - Coronavirus
When the pandemic struck, Kingston University stepped up to face the challenges posed by Covid-19.
Covid-19: How we met the challenge
At Kingston, we have strong local and national partnership links with public bodies, community organisations and businesses, including with Kingston Council and the Kingston Chamber of Commerce.
From research to business and community support, Kingston University made a vital contribution to the fight against Covid-19 during the pandemic – helping to advance knowledge in areas including health and social care, social and economic regeneration as well as exploring the impact of the virus on our behaviours, wellbeing and creativity.
Our support for businesses and the local community
When the pandemic struck, staff at Kingston were able to work closely with partner organisations to provide much needed support to businesses and the local community.
Support for small businesses through student internships
A funded graduate internships programme was set up by Kingston University in response to the Covid-19 outbreak. Charities, social enterprises, SMEs and local authorities were able to apply for funding to cover the costs of employing a team of graduates to work on clearly defined projects for six to eight weeks (part-time).
The internship programme granted organisations direct access to a wide range of specialist skills and support in areas such as digital marketing and business development.
Opening up a vaccination clinic for the local community
One example is the 10-station vaccination site that was set up at Penrhyn Road campus during the initial stages of Covid-19. The immunisation clinic was run in partnership with two local Primary Care Networks, South West London CCG and Kingston Council. The vaccination site was open to members of the local community and offered quick and easy access to the much needed vaccine.
Mathematical modelling for PPE production and distribution
Other Covid related projects run by the University included research studies, student hackathons to support business recovery and production of personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline workers.
Research staff at Kingston used a mathematical model known as game theory to evaluate the cost-saving impact that earlier stockpiling and increased storage capability could have had on levels of vital personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic could have been mitigated.
Work with us to reduce the impact of future pandemics
We continue to work closely with our partner organisations to offer support in regard to Covid-19 and to help plan for future pandemics. Please contact our team to find out more. Many of our experts are available for media interviews, so please get in touch to arrange a meeting - [email protected].