Death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II

The Queen ruled for longer than any other Monarch in British history, becoming a much loved and respected figure across the globe. Her extraordinary reign saw her travel more widely than any other monarch, undertaking many historic overseas visits. Known for her sense of duty and her devotion to a life of service, she was an important figurehead for the UK and the Commonwealth during times of enormous social change. 

The Queen saw public and voluntary service as one of the most important elements of her work, with links – as Royal Patron or President – to over 600 charities, military associations, professional bodies and public service organisations.  

The Queen visited UCL twice – in 1985 to mark the completion of the Main Quad and in February 2020 to formally open the Royal National ENT and Eastman Dental Hospitals. 

Out of respect for The Queen, UCL has lowered the flag on the Wilkins building to half-mast and we are opening a book of condolence in the Quad for UCL staff and students to sign. 

The Provost is writing to the Palace conveying our sympathies on behalf of the UCL community.  

Dr Michael Spence, UCL President & Provost, said: “Queen Elizabeth was, for most of us, the only monarch that we have known during our lifetime. As the longest serving monarch in British history, The Queen has been a much-loved and much-respected constant in our lives through all the major and minor events, developments and political upheavals of the last 70 years.  

“On behalf of everyone at UCL, I extend our profound sympathies to the Royal Family at this very difficult time. The news of Her Majesty’s death will also be a shock to many of us at UCL and our community will need time to reflect and come to terms with what is the end of an era.” 

Mental health and wellbeing support is available for anyone in our community affected by the news. UCL provides a confidential counselling and information service to students 365 days a year, as well as same day appointments. Anyone wanting to contact this can call +44 (0) 20 7679 0100 or go to https://www.ucl.ac.uk/students/askucl. UCL staff can speak to a professional counsellor or information specialist in confidence by calling 0800 197 4510.  

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• The Queen is pictured during a visit to UCL in 1985 to mark the official completion of the Main Quad.