Institutions FAQ
What are the project objectives?
- To assess the perceived quality of public and private student accommodation across the UK.
- To better understand the decision making process of students looking for accommodation.
- To increase awareness of new legislative and other issues affecting student accommodation.
- To improve student housing standards in the long term by encouraging students to be more selective.
- To determine the real-world benefits of accommodation which has been 'approved', accredited or otherwise vetted for students.
- To provide information to help partners promote their housing and support services to students.
Who can participate?
All universities, H.E. institutions, students' unions and non-profit student support organisations are welcome to participate in the project. The 2009 survey received responses from over 80 universities and colleges across the UK.
Why participate?
Institutions receive a full national report including detailed analysis, charts, tables and statistics. In addition, each contributing institution receives a confidential supplementary report covering only their students. This means institutions will be able to directly compare statistics for their students against the national report.
"The results of the survey have really helped us to clarify our priorities. Being able to see the analysis in the context of a national survey is indispensable in helping to form policy, direct future project work and encourage improving housing standards…” - Roland Shanks, Senior Housing Advisor at the University of London
The national report is also distributed to local and national government departments, charities, social enterprises and student support organisations such as NUS and Unipol.
What does it cost?
There is no cost for basic participation. Additional analysis and reporting requested by participating institutions, including some customisation of the survey, is available at additional cost if required.
How does it work?
The survey is hosted online using Red Brick's Sirius™ survey system. Universities and colleges are asked to promote the survey to their students, usually by email.
We understand many university accommodation offices are stretched so we provide a set of resources to help, including sample emails, graphics and poster designs (for optional use).
How do we participate?
Registrations of interest for the project open from the beginning of October each year. Institutions interested in participating should follow the instructions on the home page to register their interest and download a comprehensive information pack. Why not put the date in your diary now so you'll be sure not to miss registration this year?
If you have any further questions, please contact us.