Being Queer in Halls - Understanding LGBTQ+ issues in Student Accommodation

This online session gives a great introduction for staff working in privately provided student accommodation and the Higher Education Sector who want to discover the biggest issues and concerns faced by the LGBTQ+ community. The session aims to clarify terminology, introduce methods of combating homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in accommodation, and show some of the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ students – all in an attempt to improve the student experience for this community.

Spaces Available

Agenda

Speakers

Toria Thomas, Tenancy Support and Wellbeing Coordinator, Unipol Student Homes

Toria is a Tenancy Support and Wellbeing Coordinator at Unipol. Having previously trained as a Religious Education secondary school teacher, so is well used to broaching difficult topics and answering sensitive questions. Since joining Unipol in May 2022, Toria has assisted student tenants with numerous issues, ranging from flat fallouts and messy kitchens, to mental health crises. Toria is passionate about LGBTQ+ rights, animal welfare and averting climate disaster.

Details

With more and more students identifying as LGBTQ+, universities and student accommodation providers need to ensure that they are doing all they can to protect these students, and ensuring a safe harmonious environment for all. In a 2020 study by UCAS, 7.2% of their UK domiciled applicants identified as LGBTQ+ - 2.5 times above the national average for all adults[1]. To add to this, a study by Stonewall published in 2020 showed that experiences of discrimination and a lack of support directly impacted on some LGBTQ+ students’ ability to complete their studies[2]. As a result, it is important that those providing the basic provision of housing do what they can to support this ever growing cohort.

With the landscape and issues constantly shifting and changing, it can be difficult or confusing for accommodation managers to know how best to support LGBTQ+ students, provide a safe and welcoming environment, and discuss problems when they do arise. This session is designed to raise awareness of the issues that many of these students face, along with clarification of terminology and recommendations for good practice.

This session from Unipol Training will:

• Explain the basics of appropriate language and terminology used by the LGBTQ+ community
• Examine the impact of homophobia and biphobia, challenge stereotypes and consider what accommodation providers can do
• Look at the growing cohort of transgender students; the difficulties they face, the legal obligations of accommodation providers and the increased attention of the media to transphobic views and the effect of this
• Discuss ways to ensure the LGBTQ+ community feel welcome in student accommodation

Delegates will leave the session with:

• An understanding of the key issues, barriers and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community
• An understanding of the impact of negative language, stereotyping and behaviours
• An understanding of good practice in this area and how to ensure that services are inclusive and safe for all residents