Don't Settle for Second Best When it Comes to University Accommodation, UNITE Advises New Students

Informations

• Publié par: the-unite-group
• Nombre de lectures: 12
• Langue: English

Extrait

Don't Settle for Second Best When it Comes to University Accommodation, UNITE Advises New Students

PR Newswire LONDON, September 25, 2012

LONDON,September 25, 2012/PRNewswire/ -- Five point guide to what students should demand UNITE Group, the UK's leading developer and manager of student accommodation, is preparing to welcome more students than ever before to its properties around the UK this year. Aware of the difficult choices facing students, the accommodation provider warns students not to settle for second best when contemplating accommodation options and has drawn up five-point guide to what students should expect. To get the most out of their University experience, UNITE encourages students to consider whether or not they are getting: 1. Quality,well-maintained accommodation in a good location 2. Abundled package meaning no hidden costs 3. Accessto the facilities needed to study, such as quiet spaces 4. Opportunitiesto broaden their student experience by volunteering on community or charitable projects 5. Alandlord with a proven track record and heritage in delivering high quality accommodation and the support that students need. Richard Smith, Managing Director of the UNITE Operations business, said: "For many students, this will be the first time they are living on their own. For others, it will be their first time in a new city. We want students and parents to avoid the pitfalls. Choosing a home that is safe, secure, well-located and provides facilities beyond just a bedroom can make a significant difference to any student's experience of University life." Richard Smith said: "We have continued to invest significantly in every aspect of our business, and particularly in the experience we provide for our students. Our customer satisfaction score in the spring was the highest we have ever had, and our teams have worked tirelessly since then to get our properties in optimum shape for the new academic year. Our priority is to help our students settle in to University life and enable them to grow as individuals while they stay with us." Since the start of 2012 UNITE has: - Conducted independent research into student needs, welfare and the 'student experience', resulting in changes to service such as:  o'Saturday Surgeries' being tested in several cities, signposting welfare support  oJoint promotions with DrinkAware, Frank and Coppafeel  oWardens or student reps being appointed in many properties with a view to establishing them in every building next year - Completed the refurbishment of three buildings inManchester,Sheffieldand Plymouth, an investment of £5m - Invested £9m in maintaining and improving 136 student buildings

- Launched the UNITE Foundation to provide bursaries for disadvantaged students - Installed WiFi in more than 30 buildings as part of a rolling programme Despite changes in government policy and knock-on effects to the student admissions process, UNITE has opened 1,800 new rooms inLondonand Glasgowfor the new academic year, and has seen healthy reservation levels.