We are excited to confirm that we will partner with the University to undertake an audit of its student accommodation with the aim of ensuring that every student has access to a safe, healthy, and supportive living environment. The audit will look at all aspects of student accommodation as covered by the Universities UK Accommodation Code of Practice (www.accommodationcode.ac.uk), which sets standards for the management of student housing across the Higher Education sector.
This follows on from commitments made to us by University Executive in May this year, looking at ways to "prevent and minimise the impact of damp and mould in student accommodation by the end of the 2025-26 academic year". Further to discussions in May, over £10,000 has been invested in the servicing of ducting and extractor fans, with an ongoing programme of works being developed, along with ongoing monitoring of humidity levels. Furthermore, a Research project is underway at the university that is seeking to assess the impact that humidity levels, along with a range of other factors, has on the presence of damp and mould. We would remind any resident who may spot signs of damp and mould to report it to the Estates helpdesk – campushelp@aber.ac.uk
The code, for which all university managed accommodation is registered, protects your rights to:
- A healthy, safe environment
- Timely repairs and maintenance
- Access to health and wellbeing services
- A clean, pleasant living environment
- A formal contractual relationship with your landlord
- A living environment free from anti-social behaviour
Tom Bates, Head of Accommodation at Aberystwyth University, said:
“We are delighted to be working alongside Undeb Aberystwyth on this important project, which recognises the impact the living environment has on our student’s journey here in Aber. Student wellbeing and experience is at the heart of what we do, and this audit allows us to take a proactive approach to maintaining high standards within our accommodation. By working together, we can identify issues that call for improvements, offer advice and guidance to our residents, and continue to ensure our accommodation is the very best it can be. All of this is focused on ensuring that our accommodation continues to meet the highest standards and supports students to thrive during their time at Aber.”
Tanaka Chikomo, Wellbeing Officer at Undeb Aberystwyth, said:
“This partnership shows what we can achieve when students’ voices are heard and acted upon. We are delighted to be working constructively with the University to make sure no student has to worry about issues in their home, such as harmful mould for example. This is about creating safe and welcoming spaces for every Aber student who lives in University owned accommodation.” The audit will take place over the coming months, with findings helping to shape the long-term strategy for university managed accommodation here in Aberystwyth, including any recommended improvements to the accommodation provision.