We are aware that the current rules in place across the four nations of the UK in relation to COVID-19 may further affect HEIs’ REF submission preparations.
We would like to reassure institutions that the REF team are continuing to engage in contingency planning. No further changes to the exercise have been made at this stage. However, as we outlined in our recent ‘Updated invitation to submit’, we are keeping a number of areas under close review as we move towards 31st March 2021. This includes where the effects of increased measures for universities and/or significantly worsened rates of infection may result in individual HEIs being unable to make the submission deadline.
We will keep institutions updated on any further contingency measures as the situation progresses. Any queries should be directed to info@ref.ac.uk.