University advice for Sheffield students who are worried about affording accommodation rent during coronavirus pandemic

Universities across the country have moved to respond to the unprecedented challenges brought about due to the Covid-19 outbreak, with those in Sheffield transitioning to online teaching and closing their buildings to minimise the spread of the virus as advised by the government.

As students continue to come to terms with the changes to their learning, many are facing other worries such as how to afford their student accommodation at this difficult time.

Despite closing their customer contact centres, the Student Loans Company has said students will receive their summer term maintenance payments or tuition fee payments which could help towards living costs.

But for those at Sheffield Hallam that are still worried about paying for their student halls, the university has said it is working with accommodation providers to help with any concerns.

A Sheffield Hallam University spokesperson said: “The vast majority of the accommodation contracts and tenancy agreements of our students are with established private-sector providers as the university doesn’t have any accommodation of its own.

“However, we are working closely with the different accommodation providers as they review their plans to ensure students are kept up to date.

“We recognise this may be a stressful and unclear time for our students who may have concerns about accommodation as well as other aspects of their university experience.”

Sheffield Hallam’s dedicated wellbeing support services are available remotely for students, while there is also a coronavirus advice page which is updated regularly and a help centre for any coronavirus related enquiries.

The University of Sheffield has waived termination fees for students who have chosen to move home and is offering support to those still in the city.

A spokesperson said: “As the University had no alternative option, given the circumstances, but to temporarily suspend face-to-face teaching, students can be released from their contract from April 11, 2020, without any charges if they have already chosen to leave due to the current situation.

“However, the government has advised that travel home within the UK is no longer classed as essential. Students still in the city, whether in university or private accommodation, are advised by the government to remain where they are currently living.

“Services to students in university accommodation, including daily welfare calls, are continuing. Students in university accommodation will be contacted to ask if they are still in residence and should urgently respond to enable us to coordinate support.”

Students who cannot return to the UK because of travel bans will also be released from their accommodation contracts from April 11, and their third rent payment will not be taken.

Private student accommodation providers Unite Students and Student Roost have confirmed they will release students from their accommodation contracts early with no further charges while those living in Unite Students and Student Roost housing are urged contact their accommodation provider.

Those in private accommodation in Sheffield can also email [email protected] for more support and guidance.