A significant settlement of £21 million has been agreed upon by University College London (UCL) to compensate around 6,500 former students who faced disruptions to their education during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Although UCL stated that they do not accept liability, they chose to settle the matter to avoid additional expenses and focus on their core mission of providing exceptional education and student support.
Each individual’s compensation amount is yet to be determined, with the Financial Times reporting that variations will exist. The students claimed that the shift to online learning and campus closures deprived them of the full educational experience they had paid for. This settlement may set a precedent for other universities to consider compensating affected graduates.
Representing approximately 194,000 claimants from 36 different universities, Student Group Claim highlighted that this agreed payout could prompt similar actions from other institutions. The settlement with UCL, while confidential, marks the end of the legal dispute with the university, as confirmed by Adam Zoubir, a partner at Harcus Parker solicitors.
Shimon Goldwater, partner at Asserson solicitors, expressed satisfaction with the commercial resolution reached with UCL on behalf of the claimants. Moving forward, Student Group Claim intends to focus on representing students who experienced similar challenges at other universities during the pandemic.
Universities UK acknowledged the unprecedented challenges faced by universities and students due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the restrictions that led to adjustments in teaching methods, universities adapted swiftly to ensure students could continue their studies effectively.