Wednesday, 13 May 2026
Unipol Student Homes
Room to Belong - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Training for Student Accommodation Professionals
A full‑day, in‑person training course held at the Unipol office in Leeds is designed to equip university accommodation staff with the knowledge, tools, and skills to foster a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all students. The training will focus on legal obligations, the needs of diverse student populations, and the practical ways accommodation professionals can create a supportive and inclusive environment.
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, Belonging and Engagement Consultant
Sam co-led the delivery of the Living Black at University report and Commission, shaping national actions in response to its recommendations. She received the 2023 Diversity Champion Corporate Award and International Inclusion Award from Diversiton for her work developing DEIB and Wellbeing strategy, and was shortlisted as a Rising Star at the 2023 Property Week Student Accommodation Awards and for Diversity Team of the Year at the 2024 British Diversity Awards.
Through roles with National Student Pride’s Advisory Board and Student Minds’ Anti-Racism Council, Sam continues to champion meaningful change. An intersectional woman, she is passionate about fostering genuine inclusion—where everyone can bring their full selves and truly belong.
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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