Students Launch New Covid Lawsuit Following UCL Settlement
A group of university students is initiating legal action against 36 additional universities after a recent settlement with University College London (UCL). This settlement was confirmed on February 13, where UCL agreed to resolve claims from current and former students regarding disruptions in teaching during the Covid pandemic. However, the university did not disclose the amount paid to the claimants.
Students involved in this case previously sought compensation of £5,000 each. They argued that UCL breached its contract by moving classes online and restricting access to facilities from 2018 to 2022. UCL stated that it admitted no liability but opted to settle to avoid further expenses and keep resources focused on education and student support.
Context of Legal Action
Over 170,000 students are now pursuing legal action against various institutions through the Student Group Claim, the same group that achieved the UCL settlement. The universities implicated include renowned institutions such as:
- University of Bristol
- University of Manchester
- University of Liverpool
- Newcastle University
- Cardiff University
- King’s College London
- London School of Economics
Claims Against Universities
Student Group Claim is prepared to move forward with legal actions against these universities following the UCL resolution. Each university has received a pre-action letter detailing the proposed claims. Many claims from the 2020-21 academic year, heavily impacted by the pandemic, will become time-barred under the Limitation Act after September 2026.
The claimants argue that online course fees should range from 25% to 50% less than those for in-person classes. They assert that institutions failed to compensate students despite numerous complaints and petitions, violating the Consumer Rights Act. If their claims succeed, the financial repercussions for the universities could be substantial, especially during a time of financial pressure.
Quotes from Legal Representatives
Shimon Goldwater, a partner at Asserson solicitors representing the students, emphasized the need for compensation. He noted, “UK undergraduates during the pandemic borrowed money at high interest rates for courses affected by online teaching and closed facilities.” He expressed satisfaction with the UCL settlement and stated that the focus will now shift to students from other universities.
UCL President Michael Spence acknowledged the challenges faced by students during this period. He reiterated that UCL had always provided pathways for students to seek redress and that many had successfully secured compensation through those processes. The aim is to return to the core mission of delivering quality education and research.
