Companies attacked for rent demand to students

Some are facing bills of £1,000 as they self-isolate away from properties

Student union leaders have hit out at companies forcing their members to pay for accommodation in which they are unable to live.

Most students travelled home to live with their families when campuses shut and lockdown began.

Some are facing bills of up to £1,000 for unused accommodation.

Josh Connor, Dundee University’s student president, said: “These companies need to show some flexibility and compassion.

“We are all trying to do the best we can but charging students exorbitant rates for places they are not living is not acceptable.”

Many students in the city live in purpose-built student accommodation, or PBSAS, often paying annual rents.

There are at least nine such properties in Dundee owned by a range of companies.

Mr Connor said Dundee University Students’ Association had been working in partnership with Abertay to contact all the companies operating in the city.

He said: “Some of the smaller ones have offered discounts or written off final bills. It makes me wonder why the larger businesses can’t do the same.”

Owen Wright, Abertay student president, said: “It’s freaking some students out. Students need this money so they can live on it during this crisis.”

Jamie Rodney, St Andrews student president, said students in the Fife university town are facing similar issues.

He said one company, Homes for Students, which owns the East Shore accommodation overlooking East Sands beach, still expects students to pay half of their final term bill.

“In the current economic

Dundee students will be exhibiting their hard work online next month.

The annual Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design showcase will be displaying virtually this year, making it the first Dundee University flagship event to go fully digital.

Hundreds of graduating art, design and architecture students will showcase their work from June 12, replacing the usual Degree Show.

Professor Anita Taylor, dean of Duncan of Jordanstone, said: “We remain deeply disappointed about the

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Viewers from around the world will enjoy outcomes of these endeavours

cancellation of our Degree Show this year.

“Nonetheless we are committed to creating the opportunity for graduating architecture and DJCAD students to come together as a community.

“Each year we are inspired by the outstanding quality of work produced by our graduating students, and this year is no exception. The work these students are continuing to produce in extraordinary circumstances is exceptional and I know the viewers from around the world will enjoy the outcomes of these endeavours and the immense range of work and talent on display.

“Our showcase and accompanying social media campaign will allow us to share the achievements, stories, and work of our graduating cohort with public and professional communities, friends and families.”

The event launch will be broadcast live on www.dundee.ac.uk/ graduateshowcase