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In February 2022, we published Living Black at University – the first report into the experiences of Black students in UK purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA).

We launched a sector-wide Living Black at University Commission to take forward the recommendations and, 18 months on, we’re ready to share what we’ve learned in a new report.

Featuring actions taken, best practice guidance and university case studies, the Commission Report is a must-read for anyone in the PBSA sector who wants to make their accommodation a space where Black students can really thrive.

Living Black at University Commission Report

Our new Commission report shares practical tips and resources for improving Black students’ accommodation experience.

Living Black at University – Unite Students’ 2022 report on Black students’ experience in UK student accommodation – raised vital issues for the Higher Education sector. But the report and its 10 recommendations were only the start of a journey. Jen Steadman, Commissioning Editor of the new 2022/23 Living Black at University Commission report, explains why there’s a new Living Black at University report, what it covers and what’s next for the Commission.

Find out more about Living Black at University and the Commission

Want to know more about Living Black at University and the Commission, or make use of resources published by the Commission? We’ve got you covered.

Download the original report

Featuring significant findings and 10 recommendations, Living Black at University is essential reading for anyone connected to student accommodation in the UK.

Visit the Commission website

Comprised of decision makers from across the Higher Education and wider student accommodation sector, the Commission works to take actions at national level to improve Black students’ experience of living in UK purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA).

Download our resources

Find the resources created by or on behalf of the Unite Students Living Black at University Commission to support your institution in improving Black students’ university experience.

Meet Carol Thomas, the new Living Black at University Commission chair
In 2022, Unite Students set up a sector-wide commission to activate the recommendations of our Living Black at University report, which explored students’ experience in UK student accommodation. With the Commission now in its second phase and run in partnership with CUBO, we caught up with the new Commission chair, Carol Thomas.
Living Black at University Conference: Engaging with Equity
Led by Unite Students in partnership with CUBO (College and University Business Officers), the Living Black at University Commission is hosting its second conference in Canterbury on Tuesday 8th October. Here’s what you need to know.
Living Black at University: Our new partnership with CUBO
We are delighted to announce that the next stage of the Living Black at University Commission will be jointly led by Unite Students and CUBO (College and University Business Officers), as we look to continue the Commission’s work on supporting equity, inclusion and belonging in student accommodation and beyond.
The future of race and inclusion in student accommodation
Hot off the launch of the new Living Black at University Commission report, we’re continuing our focus on the future of sustainability within purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) with this month’s episode on race and inclusion in student accommodation.