Our University community is still deeply shocked and upset following the death of Nahid Almanea on Tuesday 17 June. We are doing everything we can to support Essex Police in finding the person responsible.

We will stand together to honour a talented member of our international and multicultural community who is missed by all who knew her.

Books of condolence

Books of condolence are available in the Information Centre, the main University reception on Square 5, the Students’ Union reception, Multi-Faith Chaplaincy Centre, and the International Academy. You can also leave your message of condolence online on our Essex Spirit blog.

• Condolences for Nahid

Essex Police updates

The latest information from the police investigation will be posted on the Essex Police website.

Personal safety advice

There is 24-hour security at our Colchester Campus seven days a week and those with concerns about personal safety can contact the Information Centre on Square 3 or call 01206 872125. Please also read our personal safety advice.

Essex Police has also increased its patrols in and around our Colchester Campus.

The University has made additional safety and security arrangements to ensure our community feels safe:

• A free shuttle bus will be running, every 30 minutes, from 4.40am until the late evening. It will leave Boundary Road bus stops taking a circular route around Greenstead, to University Quays and back to Boundary Road. Any student or member of staff can flag it down at any point on the route. It will have University signage. For full details of the route and timetable see the latest update on the Student Support website.
• The Students’ Union safety bus will also be running as usual each night.
• Car parking will be free from Monday 23 June and is free over the weekend as normal. You do not need a season ticket to park at the University during this period.
• There will be increased patrol officers on campus and anyone who feels vulnerable can either go to, or ring the Information Centre on 01206 872125, for an escort to their vehicle or campus accommodation.
• For those walking to and from campus, we would encourage you to join our ‘Walking Together’ email subscription where you can make contact with other University members walking on your route.
• There will be an Essex Police Officer based at the Information Centre providing drop-in advice sessions.
• The Information Centre also has a number of personal safety alarms to give out to staff and students on request.