Accessible or Adapted Accommodation

The University of Southampton is dedicated to promoting diversity and equality across our Halls of Residence. We strive to maintain an inclusive living environment where all students can enjoy an enriching University experience.

We are able to offer a range of accessible and adapted rooms to both Undergraduate and Postgraduate students across a number of our residences.

Whilst we will review your individual needs based on the notes you include in your application, below are some examples of adaptions we can offer to help you manage your illness or disability.  

Examples of accessible accommodation

• Accessible bathroom facilities, such as grab rails, shower seats, wet rooms and shower hoists.
• Height-adjustable desks.
• Installation of Telecare Alarms.
• Kitchen adaptations such as widened and automatic doors and adapted worktop cookers.
• Laminate and vinyl flooring instead of carpet for those with severe allergies.
• Lowered shelves, light switches and mirrors.
• Rooms with hoists.
• Rooms with wider door frames.

Examples of adaptations for hearing and visual impairments

• Vibrating pillows.
• Installation of flashing beacons.
• Lighting adjustments.
• Installation of doorbell facilities.

Examples of accommodation requests for hidden disabilities

• Alcohol-free flats.
• Quiet flats.
• Ensuite options.
• Ground floor rooms.
• Catering options.

How to request adaptations when applying for accommodation

Students can contact the Student Hub to discuss their accommodation requirements at studenthub@soton.ac.uk.

Students will be supported by the Disability and Inclusion team throughout the application process to ensure any reasonable adjustments can be implemented prior to arrival. Please be aware that you will be required to submit medical evidence to support your accommodation request.

We recommend students apply as early as possible as availability for certain room types can be limited.

 

Which Hall is right for me?

We encourage students to visit the Student Accommodation web pages to browse all available accommodation. Here you will find details on each site, from distance to campus, to common rooms and receptions.

Once registered with the Student Disability and Inclusion team, they will be able to provide you with further details about each halls site based on your individual requirements.

 We highly recommend students visit the University and Halls of Residence. To find out more about specific accessibility arrangements that are available at our Halls of Residence, please visit the AccessAble website.

Need an adaptation made to your current room?

If you are currently living in halls and think that an adjustment would benefit you, please contact the Student Hub on studenthub@soton.ac.uk. 

Students also have the option to continue living in halls past their first year. Whilst we cannot guarantee students will be allocated the same room, we will ensure the same requirements are met.

Accommodation Allowance

We may be able to provide an allowance to students with a long-term health condition or disability to supplement the cost of required accommodation due to an 'essential' disability-related reason. Eligibility will be assessed based on the impact of accommodation on a student’s physical and social functioning alongside their health and independence. This will form part of the discussion during your student support appointment with the Student Disability and Inclusion Team.