Wednesday, 13 May 2026
Unipol Student Homes
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) for Student Accommodation Professionals
A full‑day, in‑person training course held at the Unipol office in Leeds, designed specifically for student accommodation professionals. This session equips staff with the knowledge, confidence, and practical tools needed to create diverse, equitable, inclusive, and welcoming living environments for all students. Through expert facilitation, real‑world case studies, and activities, participants will deepen their understanding of legislation, student demographics, challenges in university accommodation, and best practice approaches to supporting belonging.
Spaces Available
Agenda
9.00am – 9.15am - Registration
9.15am – 10.45am - Introduction to DEIB and the Legal Framework
10.45am – 11.00am - Break
11.00am – 12.30pm - The Importance of Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity in Student Accommodation
12.30pm – 1.30pm - Lunch Break
1.30pm - 3.00pm - Trends in Higher Education and Student Demographics
3.00pm – 3.15pm - Break
3.15pm – 4.30pm - Discrimination in University Settings
4.30pm – 5.15pm - Creating Inclusive Environments
5.15pm – 5.45pm - Wrap-Up and Reflections
Synopsis
This in‑person course at the Unipol office in Leeds provides accommodation staff with a comprehensive understanding of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within student living environments. Grounded in real‑world challenges and the evolving needs of today’s student population, the training blends legal context, demographic insight, and practical strategies. Attendees will explore how student identities shape their experiences, examine barriers faced across university accommodation, and learn effective approaches for fostering safety, belonging, and inclusion. By the end of the day, participants will leave with actionable ideas, greater awareness, and the tools needed to create supportive, culturally responsive, and inclusive accommodation environments.
Speakers
Sam Kingsley, DEIB Consultant
Sam has been recognised with the Diversity Champion Corporate Award and the International Inclusion Award for her work on Unite Students’ DEIB and Wellbeing strategy, and she has been shortlisted for Property Week’s Rising Star Award and Diversity Team of the Year at the British Diversity Awards.
Alongside her consultancy work, she contributes to national sector improvement through roles with National Student Pride and Student Minds’ Anti‑Racism Council.
Details
In‑person training at the Unipol office in Leeds
Time: 9.15am – 5.45pm (including breaks and lunch)
What the day covers:
Module 1: Introduction to DEIB and the Legal Framework
Module 2: The Importance of Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity in Student Accommodation
Module 3: Trends in Higher Education and Student Demographics
Module 4: Discrimination in University Settings
Module 5: Creating Inclusive Environments
The day includes group discussions, case studies, reflection exercises, and action‑planning activities tailored to real‑life accommodation scenarios.
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