Action on cost of living and accommodation 

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The University has taken concerted action in the face of rises in the cost of living and pressure on the accommodation sector. 

All students who met the requirements of our accommodation guarantee were offered a place in University residences this year. In addition, we offered accommodation to more than 2,700 students over and above our guaranteed places. We also provided temporary accommodation for some students who needed somewhere to live at the start of semester. They’ve all now been offered a permanent room at the University.  

A dedicated webpage for students has been created outlining all the support available for them, from freezing rent in our accommodation, to laptop loans, cut price meal items in our cafes and free period products. It also provides information on financial support available for those that need it. Please signpost students to this page if they need support with living costs, a place to live or are maybe worried about their finances. 

Student cost of living webpage 

Staff can also access cut price meal items in our cafes. 

The University implemented the recent increase in the voluntary Real Living Wage five months ahead of the deadline, boosting the pay of those on grades one to three.  

Guidance on how to manage the rising cost of living is available from our financial wellbeing partner Salary Finance. 

Cost of living guidance

Services and support are also available from the City of Edinburgh Council. 

Edinburgh Council cost of living webpage.

The University is actively considering additional support measures for staff and we will share details as soon as these become available.   

Photography: Andrew Perry