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The winter break is fast approaching, so here are a few reminders about the break and staying well and healthy over the festive period. 

As usual, an editable festive e-card is available for you to send to your own contacts. 

Extra minimum service days – Thursday 21 December and Tuesday 2 January

Sussex staff have been given two additional minimum service days, Thursday 21 December 2022 and Tuesday 2 January 2024 in recognition of their hard work during a challenging year. If you are required to work that day, or wouldn’t normally be working that day, please arrange an alternative day off with your line manager. The extra minimum service days should not need be booked on MyView. See full information and guidance. 

Worried about your financial or physical health?

If you or your colleagues are worried about finances, feeling stressed, or concerned about your physical health you can access support from the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) which is provided by Spectrum.Life. For wellbeing support 24/7, 365 days a year, call the EAP helpline on 0800 316 9337 or get in touch via WhatsApp or SMS by texting ‘Hi’ to 07418 360 046. You can access up to eight structured counselling sessions, a medical helpline, legal support and help with day-to-day issues, such as career coaching, consumer advice or relationship mediation.

The EAP is also available to your immediate family, including a spouse, partner, registered civil partner and children aged 16 to 24 in full-time education living in the same household. 

Remember that wellbeing information is available from our wellbeing page, including our Wellbeing Support Guide, and information on Mental Health First Aiders. 

Flu vaccinations and Covid-19 lateral flow tests

The University will pay for flu vaccinations for staff who are not eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination. Doctoral tutors with a valid staff ID can access this service - read the FAQs on the Tutor Hub for more information about how to get staff ID.

You can also claim back the cost of two boxes of Covid-19 lateral flow tests (boxes usually contain seven tests), to help keep you and your loved ones healthy. 

See what’s open on campus during the break

Various facilities are open during the winter break, some with different working hours. You can see what's open and what's happening on campus via the Student Hub page about staying over the holidays.