A student using a university halls kitchen

Everyone plays a part in keeping halls safe

All the information you need about maintenance and safety in halls

Please remember:

  • Always carry your Student ID / Halls ID
  • Never let someone follow you through secure doors (tailgating)
  • Sign guests in correctly and follow guest guidelines
  • Only trust staff wearing official University or Security ID
     

 

 

Fire safety

Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Please take a few minutes to read this section carefully — it could save your life.
 

In an emergency: Call 999

Report a non-emergency concern to your halls team or security.

 

If you have a medical need or disability that means you are unable to evacuate safely on your own, please contact [email protected] for a risk assessment or Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP).

When you move in

  • Find out where your nearest fire exit and fire assembly point are
  • Check that your fire door closes fully behind you — do not prop it open
  • Familiarise yourself with fire alarm locations

What to do in a fire

  • Leave immediately via the nearest fire exit — do not stop to collect belongings
  • Walk with purpose - no running
  • Close all doors behind you to slow the spread of fire
  • Do not use lifts
  • Make your way to the designated fire assembly point
  • Do not re-enter the building until told it is safe to do so by the fire service or security

Preventing fires

Cooking

Never leave cooking unattended.

Keep the oven and hob clean to prevent flare-ups.

Electrical safety

Do not overload plug sockets.

Only use approved electrical items.

Candles and vapes

Candles, incense, and vapes are not permitted in halls as they can trigger fire alarms.

Tampering with alarms

Interfering with fire detection equipment is a serious offence and may result in disciplinary action.

 

 

Maintenance and repairs

If something in your room or shared area needs fixing, please report it to your halls team as soon as possible.

Reporting issues early helps keep halls safe and comfortable for everyone.

Report things like:

  • broken furniture
  • heating or water issues
  • faulty lights or sockets
  • cleaning or pest concerns

Maintenance requests should be logged online, or reported directly to your halls team.

Details on how to do this are in your Halls Handbook.

 

 

Support in halls

Our Res Life team can offer help and advice if you're living in University halls. From wellbeing support to community events, we help you feel at home.

Two students sitting side by side on a sofa, smiling
Access support in halls

Independent living in halls

Whether you’re getting used to doing your own laundry or managing your finances for the first time, we're here to help you do it safely, confidently, and respectfully.

A student in a kitchen in halls
Living independently

Your halls community

Here we cover the essentials of shared living—from managing noise and cleanliness to resolving disagreements—so you can make the most of your time in halls.

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