Monday 21-02-2022 - 09:30

This academic year, Bristol SU has worked closely and in partnership with University colleagues on the newly established Student Accommodation Group, to discuss and shape plans for rent setting. Despite our best efforts, the University Executive Board has voted to increase student rents by up to 5%, although there are some caveats in place. 

We’re pleased that some of our recommendations will be implemented. The number of ‘affordable beds’ (beds costing at or below 50% of the maximum maintenance loan) will increase from 7% to 9% as rents in some areas will be reduced. The accommodation bursary will be increased and additional money will be placed into student hardship funding to help with the cost of living.

However, Bristol SU cannot support the proposals for rental increase that the university has made and we are extremely disappointed that the University have not taken all of our recommendations on this matter. 

The University had an opportunity to make a tangible difference to the living circumstances of our students by maintaining and increasing affordable rents across the property portfolio. By approving the proposed rental increase above the loan increase, the University risks plunging an ever-increasing number of students into financial hardship and/or preventing them from coming to Bristol in the first place. 

Student rents and living costs are ever increasing and Bristol SU sees the impact of this on students’ lives every day. Increasing rent by more than the 21/22-22/23 maintenance loan increase (2.3%) will have a seriously detrimental effect on the student experience and ability to afford to live in our residences. 

We will continue to fight for our students to ensure that everyone has access to quality and affordable accommodation no matter their background or income.