Moving away from home is already a pretty big deal, so it’s understandable you want to ensure your new room meets all your accessibility needs. This blog examines how to find a room that fulfils your criteria, and the differences in finding accessible accommodation in uni halls of residence, private halls and private shared flats. It also explores what services you can use to support you in your house hunting journey, and when you should start looking for accommodation to ensure you find the perfect room!
How do I find an accessible room in uni halls of residence?
Under the Equality Act 2010, all universities must have accessible rooms available and make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to ensure the transition into university life is as smooth as possible. Since the quantity and variety of rooms available will differ amongst universities, this is something that is definitely worth researching early on, potentially before you even submit your UCAS application. Most universities now have virtual room tours available, meaning you can picture what it might be like to live in a certain hall of residence, and how suitable it would be for your needs. One such example is The University of Bath, which has a dedicated webpage for accessible room tours, with links to additional services you can contact if you require further help.
You can also get in touch with your university’s accommodation services to find out what’s on offer, as well as to receive help with your application. When submitting your application, try to be as precise as you can about your specific needs and requirements. This will allow them to allocate you a room which best suits your needs and find you a suitable alternative if your first choice isn’t available.
It is important that you apply as early as possible since accommodation is usually allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. Whilst your university has a duty to provide accessible accommodation, they cannot guarantee it if you apply late or it has already all been allocated. Although they will still make reasonable adjustments and offer you the best of what they have left, this may come with a compromise, such as being further away from your university campus.
What about private accommodation?
Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA’s) must also contain a certain percentage of accessible rooms. Since these are often newer buildings, they are usually better designed with accessibility needs in mind. They often also feature other facilities, such as accessible onsite gyms, cinemas, study spaces and laundry rooms, meaning you’ll be able to work-out, study and socialise in your accommodation stress-free.
You can find private accessible rooms on websites such as Accommodation for Students. Once you’ve found a flat you like the look of, you can get in touch with the customer service team or accommodation provider and check if there are still some accessible rooms available. If you’re already planning to visit your new city (e.g. for an open day), it’s also worth asking if you can have a tour of the building. You might even get to see inside an accessible room if there’s no-one currently living in it. Even if this is not the case, getting to see the building’s facilities, corridors and common spaces can help you imagine how you would navigate it and whether it could be suitable.
Living in private halls can also be a good alternative if you have left it quite late to apply and found there’s no suitable university accommodation left. Universities often have a ‘Nominations Agreement’ with local private student accommodation providers, meaning they can offer you an accessible room there, even if their own halls are filled to capacity.
The situation is more complicated with regards to private shared flats. Whilst landlords have an obligation to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to the house-hunting process (such as providing a tenancy agreement in an accessible format), they are not required to make buildings or flats accessible. Nevertheless, it is still possible to find suitable shared flats, through websites like Accommodation for Students, or letting agents who work with The Accessible Lettings Scheme which obligates specific accessibility requirements, such as step-free access, ground-floor living and wet rooms to be highlighted on property listings, thus making it quick and easy to find a suitable flat.
What support might be available?
In general, accessible rooms will typically be slightly wider as they are designed to manoeuvre a wheelchair around. They may also have lowered door handles, desks and kitchen units, as well as a wet-room. Importantly, under the law, you cannot be charged extra by universities or PBSA providers for having a bigger, accessible room.
It’s also worth considering whether you want to take your car to university for extra support. Many accommodation sites do not offer parking spaces to students, but will make an exception for Blue Badge holders. In addition, you will also be entitled to take a guide dog or emotional support animal with you (although you must tell your accommodation provider you’re bringing them in advance).
Who else can support me?
As well as your university’s accommodation services, you should also get in touch with the disability support team. Contacting them early on will ensure they can verify any medical evidence required (such as doctor’s letters, blue badges or guide dog certifications) and prevent any delays in your housing search.
You should also consider submitting an application for the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), which can help fund any additional costs you may incur related to your condition. Whilst this does not normally include rent, it may be used to cover the difference if you are renting a shared private flat and paying more to stay in accessible accommodation. Similarly, it can also be used to make your room more suitable, such as purchasing a small fridge to store medications, or ergonomic furniture (e.g. chairs).
Get your needs met in no time!
Finding a room which meets your accessibility needs can feel like a tough task. However, by contacting your university’s accommodation and disability support services and being specific about your needs and requirements, they should be able to find you a room which is suitable. You can also consider staying in private halls, which are often better designed to meet accessibility needs. All in all, by starting your search early and maintaining communication with your university’s support services, you should be able to find a room which meets all your accessibility needs in no time!
