Residential and Commercial Services. Student Information 2011/2012

Transcription

1 Residential and Commercial Services Student Information 2011/ PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE

2 2 CONTENTS STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Contents Contacts...4 Welcome...5 Your Accommodation...6 Your Room...6 Cleaning...7 Your Kitchen...6 Microwave Safety...7 Cookers...7 Kettles...7 Irons...7 Property and Maintenance Issues...8 Access to Your Room...8 Room Inventory...8 Lost Property...8 Keys...8 Mail Term Time...8 Post Room...8 Mail Vacation...8 Maintenance...9 Other Information...9 Heating and Hot Water...9 Laundry Facilities...9 TV Licences...9 Telephones and Internet Access (not Opal Court or the Grange)...10 Lifts...10 Parking...10 Cycles...10 Laundry Room...11 Pastoral Support...12 Residential Adviser On-call Duty Mobiles...12 House Representatives...12 Residential and Commercial Services Forum...12 The Student Welfare Service...12 The AccessAbility Centre...13 Student Health and Wellbeing...13 Student Development...13 Health...14 What should I do if I am unwell?...14 Living in the Community...15 Damage...15 Smoking...15 Drugs...15 Noise...15 Anti Social Behaviour...16 Litter/Rubbish...16 Overnight Guests...16 Parties...16 Pets...16 Arts in the Village...16 Catering...17 Meals Oadby Student Village...17 Exam Meals...17 Special Dietary Requirements...17 Lunchtime...17 Halls of Residence Bars...18 Food and Drink Guide: Main Campus...20 le card...20 The Library Café...21 Chi...21 delic!ous...21 Café Piazza...21 The Coffee Lounge...21 The Arts Bar...21 Planets Café...21 Coffee Bar...21 Café Welcome...21

3 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES CONTENTS 3 Money Matters and Residence Agreement...22 Fees and Deadlines 2011/ Payments...23 Student Loans...23 Budgeting...23 Debtors...23 Where to Pay...23 When to Pay...23 Returned Cheque...23 Alternative Accommodation...24 Changing Your Accommodation...24 Moving to the Private Sector...24 Vacation Accommodation...24 Vacating Your Accommodation...24 Returning Students Next Session...25 Returning Keys Policy at the End of Session:...25 Other Information...25 Complaints and Suggestions...25 Appeals Against Charges...25 UUK Code of Practice...25 Conferences...26 Part-time Work...26 Fridges for Hire...26 Photocopying...26 Energy Awareness...26 Local Facilities...26 Asda Bus & Opening Times...26 Job Opportunities...27 Main Academic Campus...28 Campus Recycling...29 Health and Safety...32 Electrical Supply...32 Portable Appliance Testing...32 First Aid...32 Barbecues...32 Door Closures...32 Windows...32 Security...33 Helpful Hints...33 In the event of a Crime:...33 Police...34 Safety for Students...35 Fire Safety...35 Electrical Safety...36 Kitchen Safety...37 Food Hygiene...38 Dangerous Substances...38 Domestic Hazards...39 Regulations...40 Environmental Issues...28 Recycling Areas...28 Oadby Student Village...28 Salisbury Houses...28 Nixon Court and Freemen s Common...28 Private Accommodation...28

4 4 CONTACTS STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Contacts Oadby Student Village Beaumont / Digby Hall The reception is located on the ground floor of Beaumont House. Reception (Mon, Wed, Thu & Fri) (Tue) Contact (kc) / 0044 (0) beaumonthall@le.ac.uk Beaumont Hall, Stoughton Drive South, Leicester, LE2 2NA Digby Hall, Stoughton Drive South, Leicester, LE2 2NB John Foster Hall The Reception is located in the Facilities Building. Reception (Mon to Fri) Contact (kc) / 0044 (0) johnfosterhall@le.ac.uk John Foster Hall, Manor Road, Leicester, LE2 2LG Night Duty Team based in John Foster Reception Gilbert Murray / Stamford Hall (GMS) The Reception is located in the Facilities Building at John Foster Hall. Contact (kc) / 0044 (0) / gmshall@le.ac.uk GMS Hall, Manor Road, Leicester, LE2 2LH City Living Sites Nixon Court The reception is located in the Facilities Building at Nixon Court. Reception (Mon to Fri) Porter midnight Security (Mon to Sun) 24 hours Contact (kc) / 0044 (0) / nixoncourt@le.ac.uk Nixon Court, Putney Road, Leicester, LE2 7TG Students from all City Living Sites should make enquiries at the Nixon Court Reception. Freemen s Common Houses Salisbury Houses Nixon Court Reception 16 Salisbury Road, Leicester, LE1 7QR 75 Regent Road, Leicester, LE1 6YF 118/120 Regent Road, Leicester, LE1 7LT 136/138 Regent Road, Leicester, LE1 7PA John Frears House, 30 St James Road, Leicester, LE2 1HQ Opal Court Reception 0044 (0) Security 0044 (0) Opal Court, 60 Lancaster Road, Leicester, LE1 7HA ocleicester@opalstudents.com The Grange Reception 0044 (0) The Grange, 41 Grange Lane, Leicester, LE2 7EG IM_Leicester@unite-group.co.uk (These details are correct at the time of going to print) Management Members of the management team can be contacted during office hours on the following numbers: Assistant Director Commercial and Business Development Kirsty Woodward Contact 0044 (0) / kjw35@le.ac.uk Accommodation Services Manager Sarah Lindsay Contact 0044 (0) / sl90@le.ac.uk Head of Facilities Sarah Fell Contact (kc) / 0044 (0) / sf57@le.ac.uk Facilities Manager Housekeeping Paula Gardiner Contact (kc) / 0044 (0) racs-housekeeping@le.ac.uk Facilities Manager Maintenance and Security Eileen Melling Contact (kc) / 0044 (0) racs-maintenance@le.ac.uk Food and Beverage Manager Clive Williams Contact (kc) / 0044 (0) racs-hospitality@le.ac.uk Nixon Court Reception Freemen s Common Houses, 153/167 Welford Road, LE2 6BF Mary Gee Nixon Court Reception Mary Gee, 101/107 Ratcliffe Road, Leicester LE2 3TE

5 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES WELCOME 5 Accommodation Office The Accommodation Office is located in the Charles Wilson building on the main University Campus, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH. The staff here are responsible for the administration of the residence allocations, residence contracts and residence fees. Any enquiries, which cannot be answered by staff in your site reception, should be addressed to the Accommodation Office which is normally open during the times given below. Monday to Friday (except Wed) Wednesdays Customer Service Adviser 0044 (0) Customer Service Adviser 0044 (0) accommodation@le.ac.uk By using your telephone in your room, calls are free to the KeyCom (kc) numbers listed. Residential Services Offices The Residential Services office is situated on the first floor of Stamford House, Stoughton Drive South, Leicester, LE2 2ND. The staff here are responsible for the day to day running of your accommodation, including housekeeping, security and maintenance. If you have any problems, which cannot be resolved locally, this office is open: Monday to Friday Telephone: 0044 (0) resi.services@le.ac.uk The national dialling code for your phone is KeyCom phones only - if you require a taxi you can call free from your bedroom phone by dialling *8 Welcome Welcome to the University of Leicester and your room for the next year. This information booklet is designed to provide advice, information and guidance whilst you settle into your accommodation. By reading it many of your questions regarding living in student accommodation will be answered. However for the avoidance of doubt where there are differences between this booklet and your Residence Agreement, the agreement prevails. Living with other students in a community is a new experience for most students and living in a close community also means there have to be some rules and constraints on behaviour. We are here to help and want to know how you are settling into your accommodation. You will find contact numbers on the opposite page, as well as my own. Factors beyond our control occasionally affect our service and, although we apologise on others behalf, we can do little other than minimise disruption in these situations. When living in a community, actions you take may not only affect your own safety but the safety of those around you, so it is very important that safety is given a high priority. You will find the University of Leicester Safety for Students information later in this booklet. Please read this carefully. Please note that Opal Court and The Grange are private developments. The University administers the allocation of rooms, collection of fees and room transfers. It also provides pastoral support. Some differences between the information provided in this booklet and the Opal Court/Grange Handbook can therefore be expected. Whilst we aim to provide the best possible service, we occasionally do not meet the students expectations. On those occasions we do encourage students to make suggestions for improvements by writing or speaking to somebody personally at the Reception. We are always happy to discuss with students any aspect of the services we offer. May I wish you every success with your studies. Frances M Stone MSc MIH Director Residential and Commercial Services 7th Floor Charles Wilson Building Leicester LE1 7RH T: E: frances.stone@le.ac.uk

6 6 YOUR ACCOMMODATION STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Your Accommodation Your Room Living in communal accommodation in a student study bedroom is quite different to being with a family and this will be a very different experience for most new students. It is an opportunity to make friends, socialise and gain valuable life experience. Living in a large student community inevitably means there will be some rules and constraints on behaviour. Accommodation is supervised for the benefit of the student community and all individual students are expected to participate and contribute to create a happy and successful residential experience. Safety and security is of great importance. Residents are expected to keep their room clean and tidy. You may personalise the room with posters and other belongings using blu tac only, no drawing pins or sellotape. Due to fire safety requirements, posters and flammable party and Christmas decorations, including fairy lights, are not permitted in any residence. Also all candles and other burning materials are prohibited. Unfortunately, we cannot allow any furniture or equipment to be moved or stored. All items in your room should be kept in your room throughout the period of your residence and returned to the same position as on arrival. A room inventory will be left in your room which you should complete and return to reception within 48 hours this is a record of the condition of your room on arrival. You are responsible for maintaining good repair to furnishings and equipment. The curtains supplied in the rooms are fire retardant; you are therefore not permitted to hang your own curtains. Room checks are undertaken termly by a member of the facilities team, to check that residents are keeping their rooms to an acceptable standard. Cleaning Self-Catered Residences: bucket are provided in all areas but you will need to purchase cleaning materials. Students living in the Grange and Opal Court are solely responsible for cleaning their rooms and communal areas. Catered Halls of Residence: Ensuite bedrooms are normally cleaned once every two weeks and communal areas are usually cleaned at least once a week. Please assist staff by clearing the floor, leaving desk, shelving and bathroom tidy. Please note if staff are unable to gain access to your room, it will be a further two weeks before the room is cleaned again. Students are responsible for cleaning their rooms and ensuite bathrooms between cleaners visits. For students who wish to clean their own room during the two-week cleaning period, a dustpan and brush is provided or further cleaning equipment is available via the reception staff. Standard bedrooms the cleaning is the responsibility of occupants. Public areas are to be kept clean and tidy, you will be assisted by cleaners on a once a week basis. All residences: Your bathrooms Leave bath/shower as you would wish to find it. Make sure shower curtains are inside on the shower tray to avoid wet floors. Mop up any water from the floor after using bath/shower. Use sanitary bins provided for all sanitary waste (do not flush these down the toilet). Please be aware that toilet paper can safely be flushed down the toilet. All students are responsible for the removal of all rubbish, recycling and bottles, to the outside bin and bottle bank areas and keeping kitchens clean and tidy. Students should ensure good hygiene practices by regularly cleaning fridges and freezers and by disposing of out of date food. You are responsible for cleaning your own room and sharing the cleaning of the communal areas. This applies to standard and ensuite rooms. Some limited support is given by our cleaning staff who will clean communal areas (usually once per week) including floors, windows and stairways and replace refuse sacks. A vacuum cleaner, brush, mop and

7 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES YOUR ACCOMMODATION 7 Your Kitchen A few simple guidelines: It is often useful to draw up a rota of duties with other residents. Wash pans, crockery etc. when eating is finished. Do not leave the kitchen in a mess for others. Keep the cooker (top, grill and oven) and the fridge and freezer clean. Prevent rodents and ants by keeping the kitchen clean and tidy and keeping food items in sealed containers. Empty rubbish into the bin outside at least once per day. Recycling facilities use as much as possible. The kitchens within the catered halls do not have full sized freezers or cookers; these areas are intended for snacks and light meals only. Microwave Safety Use the microwave safely; follow the instructions in the kitchen. Always pierce the skin of foods with non-porous skins, e.g. potatoes and egg yolks, to allow steam to escape the build up of pressure can cause food to burst and cause a hazard. Do not remove the glass base or turntable from the microwave when cooking. Do not place any metal objects in microwaves, this includes kitchen foil. Do not cook food in bottles or jars. Do not leave microwaves unattended when cooking. Kettles Think of the environment only boil enough water as you need. Ensure water covers the heating element. Ensure the kettle is on a solid surface. Keep the socket, lead and plug dry at all times. Irons Use only on an ironing board. Never leave the iron resting on a base plate as this causes it to burn. Switch off when not in use. Allow to cool before storing away. Deep Fat Fryers are not allowed in any University kitchens. You are reminded that it is your responsibility to keep the kitchen, cooker, refrigerators and implements clean. Residents will be required to pay for the full cost of damage resulting from fires. REPORT ANY DAMAGE OF KITCHEN EQUIPMENT IMMEDIATELY INCLUDING THE FLEX OF ELECTRICAL ITEMS Electrical equipment provided by the University is tested annually. Safety checks of students own electrical appliances are offered during the first month of the autumn term check notice boards for further details. This service is free of charge by Residential Services. Any repairs found necessary will be made and an appropriate charge levied. Cookers Never leave the cooker, grill, oil or pans unattended. Remember to switch off the cooker when you have finished. When grilling keep the grill door fully open. Never put hot pans on work surfaces or floors. Keep the cooker and grill pans clean the grill pan should be washed after every use. Keep the kitchen door closed at all times, this will help prevent fire alarms sounding unnecessarily. Always use a dry oven cloth when removing cooked items from the oven/grill.

8 8 YOUR ACCOMMODATION STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Property and Maintenance Issues Access to Your Room We will only enter your room without notice for an emergency or when you request maintenance. Unfortunately it would be too costly to arrange personal visits and guarantee time of day. In other instances prior notice will normally be given or a schedule published. Please note rooms will be inspected twice in the autumn term and once in the spring and summer term you will be given advance notice of these inspections. Inspections are for us to check that you are keeping areas to an acceptable standard and there is no damage to the University property. Request to enter a room by a person other than the official occupant. To ensure your security and privacy are maintained, all requests will be refused unless made by a member of the University Staff or in an emergency, e.g. flooding. If, for instance, a student requests entry to collect something, this will not be allowed no matter how important. In the event of a serious problem concerning this policy, the matter should be referred to the reception staff or the Assistant Director s Office. Room Inventory You will find a room inventory which is required to be completed and returned to reception within 48 hours of taking up residence. This will be used to compare the room when you arrived with its condition on departure. At the end of each vacating period a member of staff will check each room. All losses and damages not noted on the inventory form will be charged for. Administration charges including staff time, office costs and bank charges will also be included. Lost Property The reception and the University Security Lodge (on the main campus) normally hold items of lost property. Property is normally kept no longer than 2 months. Keys On arrival you will be issued with the key(s) to your building and room you will have paid a 30 key deposit. The key(s) will open the front door to the building and only the room you have been allocated. Please take care of this key as replacing keys is a lengthy and costly business. Replacement keys can be obtained from reception at a cost of 30 each. If this replacement key is subsequently returned because the original has been found 10 will be refunded. If a second key is lost the University will charge an additional 50 for a new lock to ensure that security is maintained. The Grange and Opal Court key charges differ from those set by the University. Please be very careful with keys to avoid compromising security. The key deposit will be refunded to you via the payment method it was paid by, once the keys are returned. (subject to any outstanding charges) see Vacating your Accommodation for further details. Mail Term Time Incoming internal and external mail is delivered to your house/block. To ensure you receive your mail promptly, the address should include your full name and room number. General letters will be delivered to the agreed area within the site; this may be to post boxes in foyers or to your kitchen please check notice boards for your site. Post Room Parcels, registered post, chequebooks and large items will be kept in the Post Room and residents will be individually informed by a copy of the post book receipt being sent to the recipient. The receipt and a form of photographic identification, i.e. University ID card will be needed to claim the item. Royal Mail post boxes nearest to Oadby Student Village are situated at the bottom of Stoughton Drive South/corner of London Road and Manor Road near Shirley House. Mail Vacation Please note that all residents must take responsibility for informing all organisations and people that send mail to their vacation address, whether they are returning for the next session or not. During the summer vacation all mail will be returned to sender after students have left. During the Christmas and Easter vacation, post may be forwarded on an occasional basis, subject to staff availability; otherwise mail will be stored until residents return.

9 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES YOUR ACCOMMODATION 9 Please remember A considerable volume of mail arrives during the vacation period and the above policies have to be applied to avoid disappointment and confusion. Maintenance Please report any maintenance problems as soon as possible. Please do not rely on house mates to report problems! Online by completing a maintenance form online at maintenance.html Online forms will only be read in office hours. Maintenance Request Form by reporting to your site reception. Emergency contacts during office hours: City Living Sites Oadby Student Village Out of office hours; Oadby Student Village students call the night staff on City Living students call the night staff on Alternatively contact your duty Residential Adviser (contact number on your key fob) or main site security on ALL RESIDENTS SHOULD BE AWARE THAT THE MAINTENANCE FORM IS AN AGREEMENT FOR A MEMBER OF UNIVERSITY STAFF TO ENTER THE ROOM TO CARRY OUT REPAIRS. Maintenance problems are dealt with as quickly as possible and information will be left for the student outlining whether further work is needed or if the job is complete. When you report a maintenance problem it will be categorised in terms of time to repair the fault. This may not match your expectations but it is quite normal in rented accommodation. Emergency Health and Safety / Life Threatening. Urgent Next working day Monday Friday. Non-Urgent As soon as possible. Routine When time allows. Emergency repairs can result in a temporary fix with a permanent repair as soon as possible, e.g. power failure, serious flooding. Urgent repairs will be undertaken as soon as possible, e.g. broken socket, loss of heating. Non-urgent and routine repairs may take longer to resolve, e.g. a door closer repair, dripping tap, one light not working. You should be kept informed of the progress of maintenance works. Sometimes it takes time to resolve a problem or work has been carried out but the repair has not worked. Please do not hesitate to contact us again if a problem is not resolved to your satisfaction. Other Information Heating and Hot Water Residence fees include all charges for heating and hot water. In order to minimise costs, the hours of heating and hot water provision were negotiated with residents. Hot water is normally provided between the hours of hrs and hrs daily. The normal winter pattern of heating is hrs and hrs. Privately owned heaters are strictly prohibited and should an additional heater be deemed necessary it will be provided by the University. Some properties have different heating arrangements. During the times advertised we aim to heat the properties to 21ºC. Laundry Facilities The launderette service is provided by a private contractor. Launderettes are available on all sites. Washing machines and tumble driers are coin operated. Please ensure you have change to use in the laundry. Faults should be reported directly to the laundry company customer care line free phone number advertised in the launderette. TV Licences Students do require a TV licence for a television used for personal use. The TV Licensing Authorities have requested that when students purchase a TV licence they have their room number, house / block, and site included on the licence. You may be entitled to a rebate on your TV licence if, for example, you do not stay at University over the summer months. Refunds are available on complete quarters only. If you would like further information please call the TV Licensing Advice Line on quoting reference STU17. If you opt into the KeyCom IPTV Service you will require a TV Licence.

10 10 YOUR ACCOMMODATION STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Telephones and Internet Access (not Opal Court or the Grange) KeyCom provide internet connection and telephone services for Oadby Student Village and City Living. Telephones: Free calls between rooms (just dial the room extension number 5xxxx). Calls are considerably cheaper than BT payphones. Operates by PIN numbers on pre-paid cards. Voice Mail is free. Your telephone numbers are located on the telephone wall socket. Callers will be charged at BT national rate. International callers will pay different rates. The contract for the telephone service is between the resident and the provider. Misuse of the telephone system will be considered a serious Disciplinary Offence. Your telephone number is confidential. It will not be disclosed to anyone else. The University cannot transfer calls or connect them to your room. KeyCom Customer Service support@keycom.co.uk Internet: By using the Residential Network Service (ResNet) you are agreeing to abide by all the terms and conditions laid out in this Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). If you breach these conditions, your access to the ResNet may be temporarily or permanently suspended. A Service Description can also be found at Line rental and internet connection are included in the room rental. At Opal Court and the Grange, a separate fee is payable for internet connection. Internet at Opal Court is provided by ask4 and internet at The Grange is provided by freewire. Lifts Lifts must not be used during a fire situation. Any malicious damage will be charged for, this is always very expensive. Do not prop lift doors open as this will result in the lifts shutting down. Parking Please note that Salisbury Houses, Freemen s Common, Nixon Court, The Grange and Opal Court have no private parking facilities for residents. There are a limited number of car parking spaces available at all other sites for which a permit is required. Application should be made, giving full details of the vehicle, to the Nixon Reception in City Living Sites or the Site Receptions in the Oadby Student Village. Residents should note that more permits will be issued than the available number of spaces, so a parking place is not guaranteed. Each residence will have areas where students are not permitted to park cars including designated spaces for disabled students. These will be clearly identified and parking in these areas could lead to your car being clamped and an unauthorised parking fee being charged. Please note that parking is at the owner s risk, the University cannot be held responsible. A charge of 50 is made for parking permits. No refunds are made for early departure. Cycles Security of cycles is most important. Police recommend that you purchase a good quality D lock for your cycle and join the cycle registration scheme at the University security. The locks are available at a subsidised price of No cycles in this scheme have been stolen whereas cheap cable locks and chains are easily cut by thieves. Lockable storage is available in some residences (a key may be obtained from the site reception) there is a charge of 10.00, 5.00 of which is refundable at the end of the session. The Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service has ruled that no bicycles may be kept in hallways, passages, corridors or stairwells. Bicycles are not allowed inside any accommodation area. If cycles are left in communal areas they will be removed and 20 will be charged for their release to cover administration costs. The University accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage to personal property, unless legally liable. Cycles must not be left during the summer vacation without the express permission of the reception staff.

11 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES YOUR ACCOMMODATION 11 LAUNDRY ROOM HELPFUL HINTS Always carefully follow the instruction signs YES PLEASE Follow garment washing instructions Check washer and dryer drums are clean before use Add soap as instructed by machine or wall chart To dry clothes faster and save money make sure the lint screen is cleared before use, put lint into the bin provided NO THANKS Don t overload the washer/dryers Don t add fabric conditioner directly onto clothing Do not leave your clothes unattended Don t use dye or bleach in these machines Don t put duvets or nylon puffa jackets into top load machines Students Guide to the laundry Safe & convenient Our washers and dryers are all conveniently located in or near your hall of residence, offering you quick and easy access to do your washing and drying when you want to, not when you have to, exclusively for student use giving you the comfort of knowing you are in a safe environment. Easy to use All the washers and dryers Circuit provide are very simple to use, just: Put your clothes in the washer/dryer *Essential Washers only add soap powder as indicated on the instruction signs displayed in the laundry *Essential if you want clean clothes Insert money *Essential (Ouch!) Select wash/drying cycle required highly advisable if you want your clothes to come out the same size and colour as they went in Customer Care Telephone Number:

12 12 PASTORAL SUPPORT STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Pastoral Support The Pastoral Support Service is lead by two full time Residential Support Managers. They manage and supervise the team of 56 Residential Advisors across both the City Living and Oadby Student Village sites. They can be contacted during office hours directly on or by ing Residential Advisors are students that are employed to provide support and guidance to other students living in halls of residence. A key element of this role is to actively promote a sense of community within each residence in order to maintain the safety, health and wellbeing of all students. All students will have a named Residential Advisor who will be dropping by on a regular basis to say hello and deliver useful information. Residential Advisors are also available on-call between 6pm and 8am every night and also during the daytime at weekends. They can assist with pastoral issues and also emergencies. Residential Adviser On-call Duty Mobiles Beaumont / Digby Hall GMS Hall John Foster Hall Nixon Court/Freemen s Common Salisbury Houses Opal Court The Grange Mary Gee Houses In an Emergency University Security enquiries 0044 (0) University Security (emergencies only) 0044 (0) Police/Fire/Ambulance (emergencies only) 999 House Representatives In order to improve communication between residents and staff, blocks and houses are encouraged to appoint house representatives. Your representative will then liaise with the Oadby Student Village Events Committee, Residential Advisors and the Management Team. You are encouraged to participate in the running of accommodation social arrangements and consultative groups. Residential and Commercial Services Forum The Residential and Commercial Services department has established a forum in order to receive feedback from our customers. This group will usually meet once a term and it is important that student representatives are present. If you have any comments regarding the service you receive please let your student representative know. Dates of the meetings will be notified. Meetings are not intended to replace regular communication between staff and students: if you have any problems or comments, please do not hesitate to speak to a member of staff. We welcome your comments. Meet the Management Team evenings will also be held during the first few weeks of term on all sites. This will be an opportunity to meet the staff to discuss any concerns or queries. The Student Welfare Service Student Welfare provides wide-ranging guidance, information and support for students on many practical issues. Officers are trained to respond to challenging situations. Our Student Finance team can provide budgeting advice and will work with students over hardship and debt issues, negotiating with banks and other creditors, and assisting students in their application for hardship funds, charitable funding and state benefits. This means that if your student loan is late arriving, you can come to the Student Welfare Service who can advocate you your behalf. A wide range of advice and support is in place for students from overseas; international students are strongly advised to renew their visa through the scheme offered by the Student Welfare Service. Introductory welcome events are organized for international students throughout the year, particularly at the start of the academic year. Students are prepared for various transitions through, for instance, pre-arrival information and advice on cultural readjustment when they leave the UK. Those students who are under the age of 18 receive enhanced support provided through the Student Welfare Service. The Student Welfare Service works closely with Residential and Commercial Services in providing high quality support for students living in University owned and managed accommodation; RA s will often signpost students to professional staff in Student Welfare. A Welfare Officer can give advice over private housing contracts, is able to mediate in disputes between residents who live in private housing, and is qualified to provide general housing advice. The University works closely with the local Police over community issues and a Community Warden is employed to develop community cohesion.

13 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES PASTORAL SUPPORT 13 The AccessAbility Centre The AccessAbility Centre works with disabled students; about half of the students we work with have specific learning difficulties, such as dyslexia. Disabled students can experience particular issues in accommodation and if you feel that the standard arrangements in accommodation need reasonable adjustment to make things a little more straightforward for you then please contact us. If you have a specific learning difficulty and there are any issues in your accommodation which affect your study then please come and tell us so we can try to help. The Centre offers a range of services to disabled students. Staff offer one to one support, assessment of dyslexia, the arrangement of alternative examination arrangements and assistance with applications for the Disabled Students Allowance. The open access Centre acts as a resource base for students and staff and is a relaxed place for students to work. Its computers are equipped with specialised software for screen enlargement and speech output. Essay planning software and speech output software is on the University wide CFS network. Low-level photocopying and printing facilities are also available. The Centre welcomes self-referrals as well as referrals from academic staff. Do not hesitate to make an appointment if there are any issues you want to discuss connected with your study. The AccessAbility Centre is located on the ground floor of the David Wilson Library, tel: ; accessable@le.ac.uk. Student Health and Wellbeing Providing information and support for the physical and emotional wellbeing of students. Health Promotion Self help Sign post to appropriate services One to One appointments: Counselling and Mental Wellbeing Visit our websites to find out more about an approach to life which can enhance study, enable you to thrive and reach your full potential. Student Health and Wellbeing: Freemen s Common, 161 Welford Road Tel: 0044 (0) Student Development Careers Service, Second Floor David Wilson Library. T: W: E: careers@le.ac.uk Whether it s developing the skills you need to succeed on your course, or in your life beyond university, the Careers Service is here to support and facilitate your academic, personal and career development. Our services are grouped into three broad themes, helping you to: succeed in your studies; gain experience; develop your career. You ll need to address these themes simultaneously, rather than one at a time, which is what we aim to help you to do. Having made it to university you ll want to make sure that you succeed in your studies. Making the transition from school or college to university life requires you to adapt in a number of ways; not least to the increased responsibility you will have for your own learning. Succeeding in your studies is about recognising how studying at university is different from your previous study experience and adapting accordingly. But it s not just about adapting to the differences it s about thriving in a new study environment. Take a look at our study guides, come to an interactive workshop or even book an appointment for one-to-one guidance if you need it. Being successful at university isn t just about getting a good degree (as important as that is). It s also about making the most of the work experience opportunities available to you to test out what you enjoy doing, develop your skills and so be in a position to demonstrate to prospective employers that you have the skills they want. This could be via an internship or placement, getting involved with student enterprise or by contributing to the local community through volunteering or social enterprise activity. We can provide access to all of these opportunities, many of which are accredited through the Leicester Award for Employability. Critical to making the most of your university achievements is being able to identify suitable career options and, having done so, clearly articulate your skills and experience to potential employers. Through online advice, interactive workshops and one-to-one guidance we can help you with your career planning, job hunting and applications. We provide multiple opportunities for you to meet employers who want to recruit bright and well-rounded graduates; helping you to find out what they are looking for and helping you to think about what you d like to do in the future. So pop in and see us or contact us via our website. It s never too early to start!

14 14 HEALTH STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Health What should I do if I am unwell? The leaflet provided in your room Your Health How to get help and Advice provides comprehensive information about: what to do if unwell; how to access health services; how to find a dentist; how to find an optician; information for International students. This information can also be found at the Healthy Living website Illness can affect any one of us at any time, for this reason you are advised to register with a General Practitioner (G.P.) when you arrive in Leicester. Most students register at the Freemen s Common Student Health Centre where the staff have extensive expertise in student health and they work closely with the University to support students at times of ill health. Registration is free at the centre. Information about the Health Centre can be found on their website Freemen s Common Health Centre will register students living locally and usually have registration sessions during the first week of the academic year in halls of residence. It is advisable to register during your first week. However, if this is not possible, registration can be done at any time. Information about other health centres can be found at If you are currently registered at a health centre elsewhere, we recommend that you transfer to a local centre whilst you are a student at the University of Leicester so that the health centre staff have access to your medical history and are better equipped to help you. If you are elsewhere during vacation and in need of medical help, you can then register there as a temporary resident. Registration is free. You can only be registered with one G.P. / Health Centre at any time. Students who come to university with a pre existing condition, are already under the care of a specialised team either receiving treatment or waiting for an appointment, are still advised to register at the Freemen s Common Health Centre. On arrival, once registered, make an appointment to discuss with one of the G.P.s who will then be in a better position to help while you are here in Leicester and to communicate with the relevant doctors. Make the Most of Your University Bookshop! Make us your first stop for all your books Visit us or your orders to our expert booksellers Join our Student Loyalty Card Scheme Open a student deposit account Special offers at the start of term Range of University Clothing and Gifts You can orders to us 24/7 We can order any book in print for you We also sell a wide range of stationery, greetings cards and gift items at competitive prices Where to find us The bookshop is located in the David Wilson Library building on the main campus. Opening hours 9am 5.30pm Monday to Friday (5.00pm in vacation time) 9am 12.30pm Saturday Tel bookshop@le.ac.uk Shop online at

15 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES LIVING IN THE COMMUNITY 15 Living in the Community Damage All damage has to be paid for. You will be charged for any damage to your room including windows, doors and external surfaces. Abuse of fire equipment carries a minimum fine of 100 and will always be treated as a disciplinary offence. Due to the fire risk, candles, barbeques and fairy lights are not permitted in any residence. When you live in a community you accept communal responsibilities and when persons who commit damage cannot be identified costs will be shared amongst the residents. Smoking The University operates a No Smoking Policy throughout all of its academic accommodation sites. If you choose to smoke it is only permitted outside University buildings. Anyone found to be tampering with the fire equipment, including smoke alarms, to allow them to smoke inside will be dealt with as detailed above. In residences smoking is strictly prohibited in all residential properties. If it is noted that students are smoking in their room, charges will be raised for extra cleaning and changing the soft furnishing including the mattress. Minimum 160. Drugs All students found using, supplying or handling illegal substances are reported to the Police, they may be required to leave University accommodation and will be disciplined under the University s Regulations, which can result in studies being terminated and a substantial fine. The University does NOT tolerate illegal drug use. Please note cannabis use and possession remains illegal and the University Policy remains in full force. Advice on drug abuse is available through the Welfare Service. Noise Students are reminded that they will be living in an academic community. Individuals and groups of students may have differing levels of tolerance of noise. Residents themselves are wholly responsible for good relations both within the residences and the local neighbourhood. In previous years this responsibility was, on the whole, been sensibly discharged. However, from time to time, there have been justifiable complaints both from neighbours and students living within the residences of excessive noise made by an inconsiderate minority. The University values our relationship and reputation within the local community and needs their goodwill, as without it there is no possibility of obtaining permission for further accommodation, student functions and renewals\alterations of our bar licences. Your co-operation is required and expected to avoid any such complaints during the coming session. Your responsibilities include: In study bedroom areas after 11pm, please; Do not allow doors to slam shut. Keep noise from conversation/sound systems/televisions at a low level so they are not audible outside a room use earphones where possible. When in your room take off shoes, particularly ones capped or studded heels. Do not congregate in the kitchens or social areas late at night. When returning to the residences late at night be considerate to those already asleep. Keep quiet, avoid slamming car doors, shouting and being a general nuisance to others. Ball games, skateboarding, use of scooters and noisy behaviour is also strictly prohibited in the grounds of University accommodation. Some areas, particularly in the boundaries of neighbouring gardens are Out of Bounds. Musical instruments may not be played in study bedroom areas except for those listened to through earphones. The University has some designated areas for the playing of musical instruments. Contact reception for more details. Mixing decks are not allowed in study bedroom areas.

16 16 LIVING IN THE COMMUNITY STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Anti Social Behaviour (and Disciplinary Procedures) Conduct: Residents should act in a fit and proper manner at all times and have consideration for their neighbours both their fellow residents and the local community Behaviour: Any behaviour bringing the University of Leicester s name into disrepute will be dealt with under disciplinary procedures; Heads of Department and the Academic Registrar will be notified of offending conduct if necessary. Care of premises and their surroundings: All students have a responsibility to ensure that their property and its immediate surrounds are kept to a high standard. Litter/Rubbish You are responsible for clearing your own rubbish from your bedrooms and kitchen areas to the outside bins or recycling points around the site. Where applicable grounds will be cleared of litter on a regular basis as set down in the appropriate service level statement. Students will be expected to behave responsibly and to avoid causing or adding to litter. Overnight Guests Overnight Guests are only permitted in accordance with the residence agreement. Students infringing these rules by accommodating guests or subletting are heavily penalised (at least 100 per cent of their normal rate). Staff are required to report abuse of the facilities. Subletting is strictly prohibited. Parties Parties are NOT allowed in the Oadby Student Village. Students are encouraged to socialise and enjoy themselves. However, parties can cause problems for other residents and for this reason you should always seek permission for parties well in advance using the form available from Senior Residential Advisors. The responsibilities of organising a party are considerable and organisers will be accountable for any complaints received, the health and safety of guests, cost of damage and ensuring that areas used are left clean and tidy after the party. In the past, some organisers have been required to pay for substantial damage in accommodation areas, University grounds and other residents property. Pets Students are not permitted to keep pets in University accommodation except Guide or Hearing Dogs for registered blind, deaf or disabled students. Members of staff are required to report abuse of this rule. Arts in the Village The Arts in the village programme is available to students from all halls and aims to offer a variety of taster and on-going sessions in varying disciplines of the performance and creative arts, either for free or at a subsidised rate. There is group and private tuition in guitar, piano and drums available as well as fully equipped practice rooms and a range of events including a year long open mic competition to test the new found skills of the participants. John Foster has a state of the art dance studio offering lessons in several disciplines including street, salsa and bollywood. From the literature side, there are spoken word events and a book club with monthly meetings to bring a little fun back into reading. Script and film analysis are just beginning and there is already a stand-up comedy workshop running with many budding stars emerging. New to Arts in the Village is the extremely popular mixology and flairing course and there are several more projects in the pipelines with the emphasis on the students preferences. If there is a demand for it, we will endeavour to provide it as students gain new skills, new friends and a great deal of confidence from these sessions as well as having fun along the way! For bookings or further information artsinthevillage@le.ac.uk.

17 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES CATERING 17 Catering Meals Oadby Student Village Cafeteria-style meals are provided in the dining room for catered students of Beaumont / Digby, GMS and John Foster Hall at the following times: Monday to Friday Cereal and Toast Cooked breakfast Evening meal Saturday and Sunday Brunch Evening meal Note: Bank Holiday meals are the same as Sunday. Meal times may be changed on occasions. In such cases advance notice will be given. Exam Meals Special arrangements can be made on request for meals during examination periods and when exams are held on a Saturday, check the hall notice board for details. Special Dietary Requirements Students with special dietary requirements should discuss their needs with the staff in reception on arrival. Where possible special diets will be catered for but students should remember that in institutional catering it is not always possible to meet everyone s individual needs. Halal food is available by prior arrangement at Beaumont Hall. NB: Halal food will be cooked alongside other meals. Lunchtime At lunchtime (12.00 to 14.00hrs) the bar at John Foster Hall is the place to go, offering a variety of stone baked pizzas, paninis and wraps in addition to a selection of side orders. An Oadby Student Village card must be presented for all meals. Misuse of Oadby Student Village cards is not acceptable. To avoid queuing residents are strongly advised not to come to the dining room until the meal is under way. No food, crockery or cutlery should be removed from the dining hall. Guest Meal Tickets ( 5.00) for breakfast and dinner are available from the reception or kitchens should you wish to invite a guest for a meal. Tickets for guest meals must be purchased prior to service of the meal. MEALS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE AT YOUR OWN HALL* * Digby students: Please note that all meals are taken at Beaumont Hall.

18 18 CATERING STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Halls of Residence Bars There are three bars in Oadby Student Village, located in John Foster Hall, Beaumont Hall and Stamford Hall. Each of the bars offers something different and as the bars are not specific to the hall, any bar can be used by any student. If you want to relax and chill out then the Café Bar at John Foster is the place for you. Located in the heart of the facilities building at John Foster Hall, the mellow lighting and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind. There is a wide variety of cocktails, mocktails and alcoholic drinks available, as well as teas, coffees and other hot drinks. The Café Bar also offers food service at lunchtimes 12 2pm with a tasty and reasonably priced selection of food on offer, including paninis, pizza and nachos. The bar is open in the evening until 9.30pm every day, but can be booked for private functions including birthday parties and society events where we can open until 11.30pm. If you prefer a bar with a bit more buzz, then you might want to check out S Bar in Stamford House. S Bar is the most central of the bars and is used as the main venue for all major student events. The bar boasts two plasma screen televisions and a large LCD projector and screen, and is the place to watch all major sporting events including Premiership, Cup and European football as well as Rugby and Cricket. If you want to watch the game at a weekend, don t worry as S Bar is open 12pm 11.30pm Saturdays and Sundays. We re also open 6pm 11.30pm Monday Friday and offer a variety of draught and bottled products, as well as soft drinks, spirits, and snacks including pizzas and toasties. All drinks are reasonably priced and offers are regularly available, especially for events. Entertainment in the bars is provided by the Events committee, and additional events are organised through Arts in the Village. You can also buy tickets to Union nights and other endorsed events at S bar and John Foster Café Bar. If you feel like a bit of culture, then you re likely to be drawn towards the Arts in the Village (AITV) Bar at Beaumont. This is a recently refurbished quirky traditional style bar where you can relax or get involved in the events. One of the key features of this area in Beaumont House is the wood paneling and the spectacular views across the Botanic Gardens, which make it the perfect place to relax and soak in the atmosphere. Events that take place in Beaumont Bar include film nights, book groups, cocktail workshops, acoustic jam sessions, guest speakers and much, much more. There is also an AITV common room where students can meet, socialise and relax in a quiet, alcohol free area. For more information about AITV, please visit our website at If you want any more information about any of our bars, please feel free to contact our hospitality team at racs-hospitality@le.ac.uk.

19 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES CATERING 19 Arts in the Village Bar at Beaumont Café Bar at John Foster Bar S Bar

20 20 CATERING STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 School of Education Eddies Coffee Bar Ground Floor Richard Attenborough Centre The Arts bar Rattary Planets Café Lower Ground Floor Charles Wilson Chi Delic!ous Café Piazza Ground Floor Henry Wellcome Café Welcome Ground Floor Medical Sciences Building Coffee Shop First Floor David Wilson Library The Library Café Ground Floor Food and Drink Guide: Main Campus le card The smarter way to shop, save and pay le card is quick Because le card uses proximity technology you will spend less time at the till. You just wave your card at the terminal and it does the rest. You can pay for transactions without using cash or having to queue at the cash point le card is easy Your account is managed by you, you can access your account online and check your balance or view your transactions. You can also authorise someone else to top up your account for you or suggest a gift voucher that can be added to your account You can top up your card automatically by using the auto top up facility, by going on line and accessing your account, or by using SMS (charges apply) le card saves you money You can enjoy le card holder discounts on selected items and there will also be le card holder discount days and events For more information and to get yours visit

21 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES CATERING 21 The Library Café Ground Floor, David Wilson Library Open term-time 8.00am 10.00pm (Monday Friday) 9.00am 10.00pm (Saturday Sunday) Enjoy our top quality rain forest alliance coffees, fresh daily hand-made filled breads, fresh home-made soup and our delicious homemade paninis. Where possible in the Library café we try to use products which are fair trade, organic and local. It s a great central place to meet friends, or just to take a break and relax on our comfy sofas. Chi Ground Floor, Charles Wilson Building Open Monday to Friday 8.00am 3.00pm Chi is a fusion of tastes offering bowl meals and hot snacks to eat in or take away. Chi concept brings fantastic street food on a truly International theme with tastes from Indonesia, China, Malaysia, Mexico and Thailand to name but a few, all alongside a very traditional English breakfast offer. Chi really has got something for everyone. delic!ous Ground Floor, Charles Wilson Building Open 8.00am to 7.00pm (6.00pm in vacation) Monday to Friday Our delic!ous shop offers a sandwich made just for you at lunchtimes as well as homemade salads, sandwiches, soup, jacket potatoes, hot snacks, bread, milk, newspapers, confectionary and meals to cook at home. It also has a large range of treats, local produce and seasonal goods. Café Piazza Ground Floor, Charles Wilson Building Open term-time 9.30am 4.30pm, Vacation 10.00am 3.30pm A Mediterranean style Café Bar serving a selection of hot and cold snacks and all types of drinks including great coffee and a selection of beers. All served in our vibrant street style café. If the weather s good you can enjoy all of this overlooking the park. The Arts Bar The Richard Attenborough Centre Open term-time Mondays Fridays 10.00am to 9.00pm Vacation 10.00am to 4.00pm Serving a selection of hot and cold snacks including breakfast bagels, paninis, jacket potatoes, bruschettas, salads and homemade cakes. We have a range of wines and tapas for the evening. The bar stocks continental beers and premium spirits and is the perfect place to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat before attending one of the many varied performances at Embrace Arts. Tel: 0044 (0) Planets Café Rattray Lecture Theatre Open term-time 10.00am 4.00pm, Wednesday closes 2.15pm This Café has a fine selection of baguettes and sandwiches, filled jacket potatoes, hot and cold drinks, and cakes. Coffee Bar Ground Floor, School Of Education Open term-time 10.00am 2.00pm Previously known as Eddies, the ground floor, School of Education café has been recently refurbished to offer a larger seating area and improved self service facilities. The café serves a selection of filled sandwiches, rolls and a full selection of drinks. A new name is currently being chosen. Café Welcome Ground Floor, Henry Wellcome Building Open daily 10.00am 2.00pm during term time Light, bright and friendly café, featuring sandwiches and paninis, plus a wide range of hot and cold beverages. Pre-order service ring The Coffee Lounge 1st Floor, Medical Science Building Open term-time 9.15am 4.00pm, Vacation 10.00am 3.00pm, Fridays in vacation 10.00am 2.45pm Recently refurbished, this café has a modern and vibrant look and serves a wide range of drinks, newspapers, snacks, cakes, filled rolls, freshly baked breads, breakfast baguettes and filled jacket potatoes. Ideally situated in the heart of the Maurice Shock Building, it s a local café for the users of the building. A new name is currently being chosen for the café.

22 22 MONEY MATTERS AND RESIDENCE AGREEMENT STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Accommodation Services Fees Schedule 2011/12 Oadby Student Village Term 1 Term 2 Term 3 Payment Deadline 21-Oct Jan May-12 Annual Total Catered Contracts 11 Weeks 11 Weeks 8 Weeks 30 Weeks Standard Twin 1, , , Standard Single 1, , , Premium Single 1, , , , Standard Ensuite 1, , , , Premium Ensuite 1, , , , Premium+ Ensuite 1, , , , Self Catered Contracts 15 Weeks 16 Weeks 8 Weeks 39 Weeks Standard Twin 1, , , Standard Single 1, , , Premium Single 1, , , Premium Ensuite 1, , , Premium+ Ensuite 1, , , Premium Flat 1, , , City Living Term 1 Term 2 Term 3 Payment Deadline 21-Oct Jan May-12 Annual Total 39 Week Contracts 15 Weeks 16 Weeks 8 Weeks 39 Weeks Standard Single 1, , , Week Contracts 15 Weeks 16 Weeks 11 Weeks 42 Weeks Standard Single 1, , , Premium Single 1, , , Premium+ Single 1, , , Standard Double 1, , , , Premium Double 1, , , , Standard Ensuite 1, , , , Standard+ Ensuite 1, , , , Premium Ensuite (Opal Court) 1, , , , Premium Ensuite (The Grange) 1, , , , Premium+ Ensuite (The Grange) 1, , , , Premium+ Ensuite (Nixon Court) 1, , , , Premier Room (Nixon Court) 2, , , , Premium Flat (Opal Court) 1, , , , Premium+ Flat (The Grange) 2, , , , Studio (Nixon Court) 2, , , , Other Charges: Room Transfer Fee 30 Failure to pay by deadline date 10 Failure to pay by agreed installment date 10 Debtors letters (per letter) 10 Missed appointment or failure to rearrange 15 Returned Cheque 10 Returned cheques will also incur a late payment charge if applicable. Interest will be added to debts at the rate 1 per cent per month compound calculated on a daily basis. Charges are cumulative. Residents who are in financial difficulty should discuss their problems with the staff in the Accommodation Office. The Residential Services of the University of Leicester comply with the regulations set out by the Universities UK (UUK) Code of Practice. Further information about the UUK Code of Practice for University Accommodation can be found at

23 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES MONEY MATTERS AND RESIDENCE AGREEMENT 23 Note: January accommodation fees are due on 27th January Please note, if you obtain permission not to return to the University before this date, ensure payments are made. You should therefore remember the date for payment. It will not be extended. Residence fees are calculated on the basis that residents pay fees promptly. They are due on the first day of each term, however a period is given to pay up to the deadline. See data on previous page. Failure to pay by the due date will result in a late payment fee. No excuses are accepted. In addition, failure to respond to requests for payment or to clear debts before the end of term will result in a further charge of 10. You will also be charged for debtor letters. Residents should note that returned cheques will incur a charge of 10 and if applicable the late payment fees. All payments should be in sterling. Students who undertake international bank transfers to the University bank account should note that payment of any bank charges made to the University will be required. Late payment and debt letter fees may also be payable. Any problems with payment should be discussed with the staff in the Payments Office before the deadline for payment. Multi occupancy rooms: Please note that where students move out of shared accommodation the fee is adjusted for both those who move and those who remain. The discounted rate only applies whilst the rooms are shared. Payments Student Loans Accommodation fees are paid in three instalments and are timed to coincide with the three student loan instalments. If your Student Loan is late arriving, you are able to request an installment plan for payment of residence fees (you will be charged a small fee to set up this revised payment schedule); enquire at the Accommodation Office, Mezzanine Floor, Charles Wilson Building. If you have issues or concerns regarding your student loan, the Student Welfare Office in the Percy Gee Building (Students Union) can offer advice. Budgeting Planning expenditure from the outset is a sensible course of action. Being careful with money in the first term can save you problems later on. Working part-time in one of the residences may help. See Other Information in this booklet or on the Student Development Job Shop website Debtors The Residential and Commercial Services is a self-financing business. Staff have a responsibility to ensure that all accounts are paid. If an account remains unpaid at the end of a term you may be suspended from the University and required to leave your accommodation (whilst remaining responsible for payment of fees for the year). The University, therefore, has rigorous procedures to recover monies owing. Where to Pay It is possible to pay online at with credit or debit card (not Visa Electron or American Express) or at: Payments Office, Ground Floor Charles Wilson Building. City Living Sites: Nixon Court and Freemen s Common: Payments by cheque or card can be made at the Site Reception at Nixon Court. City Living Sites: Nixon Court hours Monday to Friday Opal Court, The Grange and Salisbury Houses: Pay at the Payments Office, Charles Wilson Building. Oadby Student Village: Pay online or at the Site Reception, during the following hours. Beaumont/Digby Hall hours Monday to Friday GMS Hall hours Monday to Friday John Foster Hall hours Monday to Friday Cheques should be made payable to the UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER. When to Pay Fees are set on the basis that they are paid in advance on the first day of each term. A deadline is given which gives a further couple of weeks to pay. You must pay by the deadline to avoid late payment charges; fees are set out on your residence agreement. No further reminder will be sent to you. It is your responsibility to pay by the deadline. Returned Cheque If a bank returns a cheque to us unpaid, charges will be incurred for late payment plus a returned cheque fee. You may also face disciplinary action. Please ensure there are sufficient funds available in your account to cover the cheques written.

24 24 MONEY MATTERS AND RESIDENCE AGREEMENT STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Alternative Accommodation Changing Your Accommodation First year students may apply through the Accommodation Office or the Site Reception to move to any of the other areas of University allocated accommodation. Information on room transfers and costs are available from Accommodation website If a transfer is possible a charge of 30 is made to cover administrative and cleaning costs. Please note that if you are in a shared room, fees will be adjusted for the student transferring and those remaining. Transfers are not always possible; we recommend that you give yourself time to settle into your allocated accommodation. The Accommodation Office deals with transfers in order of receipt and other priorities. Returning students are not normally permitted to transfer between halls and self catered accommodation. Moving to the Private Sector Students who leave University accommodation during the Academic Session whilst remaining a registered student will remain liable for the accommodation fees for the year. The staff in the Accommodation Office will do everything possible to meet student s accommodation requirements within the University. If students finally decide to move out to the private sector individuals should first discuss this with a member of staff in the Accommodation Office. Vacation Accommodation City Living: All City Living residences close for the summer vacation, with the exception of Nixon Court and Opal Court. Students wishing to remain in accommodation for this period will be offered the opportunity to reserve rooms at Nixon Court. Full details regarding this will be circulated during the summer term. Note any belongings left in the accommodation at the end of residence will be disposed of. Information about external companies who will store belongings is available from your site reception or from the Student Welfare Service website: Oadby Student Village: All catered residences (30 week contracts) close for the University vacations. Students must clear all their possessions from their bedrooms and kitchens. Students wishing to remain in Leicester over Christmas or Easter will be offered the opportunity to book a temporary room in one of the properties for the vacation on a self catered basis Speak to staff at reception for further details. Vacating Your Accommodation When students vacate the accommodation, the room should be cleaned and ready for the next occupant. This includes: Clean the room, vacuum, dust, clean internal glass. Fold bedding if provided. Remove pictures etc. from walls and other surfaces carefully to ensure the decoration is not damaged. Remove rubbish to the refuse bins outside. Ensure that all the required University property is in the room and is undamaged and in the same place as found on arrival. Have the room checked and outgoing inventory completed. Return room keys. All belongings and food must be removed from the kitchen including food within the fridge/freezer. All communal areas are to be cleaned including kitchens. Once you are ready to leave you will need to request that your room is checked by a member of staff. Your room inventory, which you would have completed on arrival, will be used as a reference of how we would expect the condition of your room to be. The key deposit will be refunded to you via the same payment method as paid by once the keys are handed back (subject to any outstanding charges). The University will accept no responsibility for any lost or damaged belongings at any time. Students in self catered accommodation not moving to Nixon Court will be required to vacate their accommodation by am on the Sunday following the end of their residence agreement. Examples of charges often incurred by students leaving: Cleaning per room Painting (e.g. damaged by blu-tac) per room Non-return of key Wastepaper bin damaged Reconnection of Door Closure minimum Missing pillow catered ensuite only Missing duvet catered ensuite only A 5 administration charge will be added to all the above costs. Please note that smoking is not allowed inside the buildings. If someone smokes in a study bedroom, a minimum charge of 160 will be made for cleaning and replacing the mattress

25 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES OTHER INFORMATION 25 Returning Students Next Session Some accommodation is reserved for returning students. Details on how to apply online will be ed during the spring term. Allocation of Rooms: In order to prevent any misunderstandings, room allocations in the accommodation system are prioritised in the following order: New students who have guarantees of accommodation arriving during the year. Special and welfare cases at the discretion of the Director. International students. Final year undergraduates. All other students. The above factors are taken into account when allocating rooms and may on occasion override transfer of rooms and waiting lists. Students are reminded the University has sole discretion over the allocation of rooms and therefore is entitled to refuse any application. In the event of more applications being received from returning students than rooms available, the above priorities are used. After this applications will then be considered for a ballot. Unsuccessful applicants will be offered the opportunity to be placed on the waiting list. This waiting list is again overtaken once application forms from new students are received. Returning Keys Policy at the End of Session: If keys are returned to the appropriate person on departure the full amount of key deposit will be returned. If keys are not returned on departure but within 14 days of the departure date 10 will be returned. If keys are not returned within 14 days of the departure date the key deposit will be forfeit and the University will charge an additional 50 for a replacement lock. All or part of the key deposit may be withheld as compensation for loss or damage (including extra cleaning) to your room. Other Information Complaints and Suggestions Whilst we aim to provide the best possible service, we do not always meet the students expectations. On such occasions we do encourage students to make suggestions for improvements. If you have any comments please discuss them with the reception staff. If you do have serious complaints or suggestions regarding your accommodation which have not been resolved by the reception staff, please write to: The Assistant Director Facilities and Services Stamford House Stoughton Drive South Leicester LE2 2ND af127@le.ac.uk Factors beyond our control occasionally affect our service and, although we apologise on others behalf, we can do little other than minimise disruption at such times. Complaints and suggestions about Opal Court or The Grange should be notified to the staff at reception at Opal Court. If your issues are not resolved please notify the Accommodation Office. Appeals Against Charges There is an appeal system available to residents to dispute charges. Appeals should be discussed with The Director of Residential and Commercial Services. If you wish to appeal against any final decision you may appeal in writing to: The Secretary, Special Cases Committee, c/o Accommodation Office. Details of how to appeal will be sent to you. UUK Code of Practice The Residential Services of the University of Leicester comply with the regulations set out by the Universities UK (UUK) Code of Practice. Further information about the UUK Code of Practice for University Accommodation can be found at

26 26 OTHER INFORMATION STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Conferences Both the City Living and Oadby Student Village sites are let to conferences, courses and summer schools during the vacations. Day conferences and functions are also held in the Oadby Student Village during term time. This business activity brings important income to the University and to the Residential and Commercial Services department. It is our intention to increase this business as the need to keep residence fees low is essential, this will also include an increase in our term-time business. Returning students will know of the improvements that are made due to this income. The co-operation of all residents during the conference business, both during termtime and vacations, is much appreciated. Part-time Work A limited number of casual part time evening and weekend jobs payable at 6.40 per hour are available to reliable students during term time. Some full time work is available in halls during the Easter and summer vacations apply at Fridges for Hire A limited number of small fridges, suitable for use in individual study bedrooms, are available for hire. If you have a medical condition for which you would find an in-room fridge convenient, please contact racs-maintenance@le.ac.uk. Only fridges hired from the University may be used in study bedrooms. The fridges need to be left clean at the end of each term. Cost: per year. Photocopying Facilities are available in the Site reception at a reasonable charge. Local Facilities Local supermarkets ASDA is a short walk from the Oadby Student Village and Morrison s is nearest for Freemen s Common, Opal Court and Nixon Court. For residences situated in the Knighton area, both these stores are a short bus ride away or you have the convenience of a good selection of shops on Queens Road. ASDA Bus There is a free shuttle bus running between the Asda Supermarket and some of our City Living sites. It typically runs once a week from specified stops and gives students about 1 hour to shop before taking them back. More details will be advertised on the Accommodation website. Opening times are: ASDA Mon Opens 8am Tue Fri 24hrs Saturday Closes 10pm Sunday 10:00am 4:00pm MORRISON S Mon/Tues/Wed Thurs/Fri Saturday Sunday Abandoned shopping trolleys cause inconvenience and are a hazard. You must not bring trolleys on to any of the sites (charge for doing so 25) Energy Awareness The University is involved in an Energy Awareness Campaign to help reduce environmental pollution, preserving the planet s finite supply of fossil fuels, and reduce money wasted on energy. You can help this by switching off all lights and equipment when you leave your room. Look out for campaign posters for more ideas.

27 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES OTHER INFORMATION 27 Attention Students! Do you... Want to gain experience? Prefer to stay in halls over the vacation?* Need some extra money? Then why not... Join The Residential & Commercial Services Team!! Why join us? The money!!! We pay 6.40 per hour. Flexibility We know how important your studying is so we re flexible, offering vacation & term-time work or both! Team Environment We have lots of staff who are students so it s a great way to meet new people & make new friends. The work in term time serving meals and cleaning up for our student customers mainly short shifts which can fit around your social life and studies. The work in vacations there are several different jobs in Catering, Housekeeping & Portering. A chance to learn new skills. Training Full training is provided; so gain some new skills and bulk up your CV and receive a reference from a reputable employer. *Live in During vacation we can provide some staff accommodation, the rent is paid weekly. We are looking for: Hardworking, Enthusiastic, Flexible & Reliable Team Members

28 28 ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Recycling Areas The recycling facilities at the Halls of Residence and at the academic sites are slightly different. The following sections tell you more about each of these different schemes and include website addresses for accessing any further information. Also check site notice boards for further information. Oadby Student Village and City Living Sites Mixed recycling bins and bags are provided in the kitchen of blocks and houses. Students are responsible for sorting into the correct bags, when bags are full they are to be put outside in the appropriate wheelie bin, ready for collection. All the materials that can be recycled are listed over the page. All Oadby sites have a bottle bank for all glass bottles and jars. Tetra pack cartons can be recycled at 3 locations in the borough, please visit the website for more details Salisbury Houses Large coloured wheelie bins are provided outside the houses. Students are responsible for putting any recycling material into the correct bins, which are then collected by the local council. For more information please visit White bins = Glass bottles and jars. Please rinse and remove lids. Yellow bins = Plastic such as detergent, shampoo, milk, and fizzy drinks bottles. Please remove lids, rinse and squash. Blue bins = Paper, newspaper and magazines. A new, mixed recycling scheme will be introduced in October 2011 where all types of recyclable materials should be put in to the orange bags which will be provided by Leicester City Council. Recyclable materials which can go into the green box include: Glass = bottles and jars. Please rinse and remove lids. Paper = Newspaper, magazines and catalogues. Plastic bottles only = Please remove lids, rinse and squash. A new, mixed recycling scheme will be introduced in October 2011 where all types of recyclable materials should be put in to the orange bags which will be provided by Leicester City Council. Main Academic Campus There is an award-winning recycling scheme operating at the University s academic sites which means you can recycle most of your plastics, paper and metal materials. The recycling bins are colour coded as follows: Red = Plastics Blue = Paper Grey = Metal Black = Landfill There are over 3000 internal recycling bins on site and students are strongly encouraged to visit for more information. If you are unsure then please put your waste into the landfill bins as contamination in the recycling bins can result in the recycling being rejected. Batteries and electrical waste must not be put into landfill bins, information on the disposal of these items can be found on the above website. We recycle around 500 tonnes of waste each year and the average recycling rate on the academic campus in 2010/2011 was 40%. This is a fantastic achievement and you can help us do even better by reading the What Can I Recycle poster on the next page. Private Accommodation For students residing in private accommodation Leicester City Council operate a recycling green box service which enables city residents to have their glass, plastic bottles and paper collected from outside their door. Please present your green recycling box at the edge of your property before 7am on collection day. Collection days, to acquire a green box and further information can be found at

29 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES 29 What can I recycle on campus? RED Plastic BLUE Paper GREY Metal BLACK Landfill Recyclable materials are collected separately on Central Campus and are collected mixed within Residences.

30 30 ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Do your bit to reduce the University s carbon footprint The University has committed to reduce its carbon footprint by 60% by 2020 and we need your help to achieve this tough target. Getting involved is easy and the good news is that it s fun, will save you money, keep you fit and help you meet people. How big is yours? Top tips to reduce your own carbon footprint: Read the A-Z Guide to Waste and Recycling Don t just stand by... turn your computer and tv off when not in use Who needs the gym? Use your daily commute to get fit by walking to the University Stressed out? Tired? Then get on your bike! Cycling has been proven to reduce stress and make you feel great. Wash your clothes at 30 o C Report any labour repairs needed to maintenance Watch those food miles Buy local, sustainable, organic and ethical Say no to plastic bags at the shops and only buy goods with less packaging Use non-chemical cleaning and cosmetic products Leave your car at home and use public transport or grab a lift to get around. Sign up to be an Environment Team Volunteer

31 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES 31 Volunteers Needed! Are you... Interested in environmental issues? Keen to meet new people & have fun? Prepared to work for a free hoodie? The University s Environment Team needs the help of enthusiastic students with: The Big Switch Off Waste Auditing Recycling Competition in Halls Green Impact Fairtrade Fortnight and much more. For more information find the Environment Team at Freshers Fair or sign up online at Like us on Facebook Environment Team Leicester Follow us on

32 32 HEALTH AND SAFETY STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Health and Safety It is the responsibility of the resident to maintain a safe environment for the University s employees who may have to enter the premises. Electrical Supply Some of our accommodation has 2amp sockets in the bedrooms so therefore care is needed not to overload sockets. Please refrain from using items with heat elements in rooms such as kettles, toasters and irons. Fridges or chillers are not allowed in study bedrooms; kitchens are equipped with fridges, microwaves, kettles and irons. Electrical appliances should not be used in corridors. Students are responsible for ensuring that personal electrical equipment using the power supply from communal areas is safe. The electrical supply in the UK is 230 volts. Electrical equipment purchased outside the UK may not be compatible and only suitable for 110-volt systems. Connecting such equipment will cause a FIRE. All equipment must be checked by portering staff prior to use. Portable Appliance Testing In line with University agreed guidelines the department will undertake tests as follows: University owned portable electrical equipment annually. Tests for students personal electrical equipment will be offered during the autumn term free of charge. Details can be found on notice-boards or from the reception staff. The Safety for Students Section found within this booklet contains further advice. The maintenance staff expressly reserves the right to remove any personal electrical equipment believed to be dangerous. First Aid A list of registered First Aiders appears on the notice-board in reception. First Aid boxes are located in the Reception, Porters Office and with Residential Advisors. In the event of an emergency or accident: Remember to keep calm and raise the alarm, i.e. contact the following people as appropriate by telephoning either by your mobile or bedroom phone:- Duty Residential Adviser s, mobile, evenings and weekends. Reception Monday to Friday 9am 5pm. 999 Police, Fire, Ambulance. All incidents/accidents must be reported to a Residential Adviser or reception staff, and where appropriate an Accident Form must be completed. Barbecues The use of barbecues by residents is not permitted in University grounds. Door Closures Where door closures are provided they form part of the Fire Safety Requirements. Considerable risk to residents is taken if door closures are tampered with, removed or disconnected. If they are interfered with, students can expect to pay a fee of at least 30 for administration and a possible fine of up to 150. Interfering with door closures will be viewed as tampering with fire equipment. Windows As a general rule, if a window is broken it is charged to the resident even when the damage was caused by a person unknown, just as it is in your own home. Most of the windows, for security and safety reasons, have restrictors fitted on them and some sites have two ways of opening tilt and turn. Do not force them, interfere with the mechanism or remove any parts. If you are unsure how to operate your window, please speak to a member of staff on site.

33 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES SECURITY 33 Security Leicester is a safe place to live, but crime does occasionally happen. Every year some students lose possessions through burglary or theft, which could be prevented. It is essential to protect your property that students take responsibility for their belongings. Locking your room and front door is vital and insurance is strongly recommended for bicycles, lap tops and mobile phones. Be alert for strangers at all times and do not give criminals an easy opportunity. Try to follow the few simple procedures listed: Helpful Hints The most commonly lost item at this University is a USB flash drive (memory stick) because students leave them in computers. Keep them safe. Avoid walking alone; keep with a friend. At night, stay with a group and keep to well lit areas. Request visitors to identify themselves. Do not allow entry to unknown persons. If they claim they are visiting others, ask them to wait and bring the resident to the door to identify the visitor. Most bicycle thefts can be prevented by the use of a substantial, quality D lock, available from the security lodge on main campus. Join the Cycle Coding Scheme as well; it s fast, free, and effective. Keep Entrance/Corridor doors locked at all times Ensure that block/house doors are also kept locked. Never tamper with locks Ensure the windows and doors to your room are closed and locked when leaving a room, even if it is only for a short time. Personal computers, laptops, and all valuables left in view of windows are invitations to burglars. Close blinds or curtains when not in your room. Use a laptop lock. Simple preventative measures like keeping ground floor windows closed will reduce crime. If you see anything suspicious, inform a member of University staff immediately. Call Security 24 hours a day, seven days a week on Main Site Security deal with Lost Property, Cycle Registration, Access Cards, liaising with local police, and maintaining mobile and foot patrols across the University estate. They also provide support and assistance in the event of a crime to staff and students. Security operate a Control Room 24 hours a day, every day of the year. In the event of a Crime: Call the Police first: Telephone: 0044 (0) Record your crime number Report to main site security. Contact Main Site Security: Telephone: 0044 (0) control@leicester.ac.uk

34 34 SECURITY STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Police Contact Details: EMERGENCY 999 Non-Emergency 0044 (0) Leicestershire Constabulary website or Hi, my name is PC 1129 Harvey Watson and I am the Police Beat Officer for the CAMPUS PARK Beat, which includes the University campus and surrounding areas. I am supported by my colleague PCSO Amarjit Sanghera. We work closely with the University Security Officers and the Welfare Service to provide an integrated support service for students. Our main role is to make your stay at the University as safe and crime free as possible but we cannot do this without your help. We want you to enjoy your university experience and to graduate without any problems. You can meet us during Fresher s Week, obtain security tips and advice and get your UV pen all free! If you miss us during Fresher s you can obtain a free UV pen from the Welfare Service in the Percy Gee building. When you get to Leicester, please take a few minutes to register your property at This is a FREE ONLINE PROPERTY REGISTER that police use to check property stolen. Many mobile phones are lost or stolen and we have reunited many phones with their owner. Record your imei number. To get this tap in *#06# and this will give you the number. Please use the UV pen to mark all of your valuables with your postcode and house number. If your property is ever stolen and is recovered we can get it back to you. You should mark LAPTOPS, CAMERAS, IPODS and other expensive items. You need to make sure that your memory sticks are safe and are labelled as many of these are lost or left in computers and do not get returned to the owner mark them with your name or student number then if they are handed in you have a chance of getting them back. Always back up work on your computer; then if it is stolen you will not have lost everything. Laptops are easily stolen, memory sticks are easily lost but most distressing of all is the loss of academic work please do not let this happen to you. Please consider purchasing a laptop tracker so if it stolen we can recover the property. Go to and always back up your work. Leicester is a fairly safe area, but you will be living in a large city or, for those living at Oadby Student Village, in a suburb. You need to be aware that there are thieves around, so ensure that you keep all doors and windows locked when you leave your property and do not leave laptops near windows on view. We encourage you to report any suspicious individuals. Take responsibility. To help you and keep you informed over crime we have set up our own facebook page called CAMPUSCOPS. This has been well received by students and we try to update the page most days. Have a look and join up. Please do not hesitate in contacting us if you have a question over safety or security, are concerned about a situation, or have been a victim of crime. We are here to help.

35 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES SAFETY FOR STUDENTS 35 Safety for Students Guidance Notes on Student Health and Safety in Oadby Student Village and the City Living Sites Introduction As a student in University of Leicester accommodation you, as well as the University and management, have responsibilities for safety. People seldom think about safety except in connection with dangerous sports or crime; in fact, many thousands more are hurt sometimes very badly hurt in accidents in the home where most people feel safest. While you occupy University accommodation, whether in Oadby Student Village, or City Living accommodation, that is your home for the time being. You have a duty not only to yourself, but also to others, who might be affected by what you do or don t do, to act safely and avoid injury and risks to health. This information is a common-sense guide to health and safety for students in University accommodation, and the hope and expectation is that complying with its straightforward advice will help you to avoid accidents and injuries. If you have any queries about the contents of this section, or on any other aspect of health and safety, help and advice are available from your Site Reception, Residential Adviser or Senior Residential Adviser, or from the Safety Services Office by telephoning (0044 (0) 116) University accommodation is fitted with modern fire detection systems to provide the highest level of life safety. However the fire detectors are SENSITIVE and susceptible to unwanted false alarms, caused by smoke from burning food, steam from kettles, aerosol sprays etc therefore cooking should never be left unattended. Fire Extinguishers Fire extinguishers and fire blankets are provided in kitchens. Fire extinguishers are also provided in common areas. They should only be used on small fires and only if you have read and understood the instructions. Remember that the University does not expect you to take risks dealing with fires in its property. It can sometimes be better to just leave the area, raise the alarm and call the Fire Service. Fire extinguishers are RED, but have a coloured band to indicate the type of fire they are designed to fight. There are two types mainly used throughout the University: CREAM BAND Contain foam and are used to smother fires. These can be used on fires that involve combinations of paper, wood, textiles, oils and fats. However, when intending to use a foam extinguisher near electricity you should cut off the power first. BLACK BAND Contain carbon dioxide and are most effective on fires involving live electrical apparatus. The gas is not toxic, but it is an asphyxiant and CO2 extinguishers must not be used in small confined spaces such as vehicles, store cupboards and the like. Fire blankets These can be used to smother fires in frying pans, cover small appliances that are on fire and wrap around people whose clothing is burning. Once you have used the blanket for whatever purpose, DO NOT REMOVE IT until you are sure it is safe to do so. If you have wrapped it around someone, leave it there for skilled medical people to remove. Remember, the golden rule is: GET OUT, CALL THE FIRE BRIGADE OUT, AND STAY OUT! (Property can be replaced People can't.) Misuse of fire safety equipment IT IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE TO MISUSE ANY FIRE SAFETY EQUIPMENT, INCLUDING EXTINGUISHERS, ALARMS AND FIRE BLANKETS. Students caught doing so will be subject to disciplinary procedures, may be reported to the police and will in any case forfeit their place in University accommodation. Please take this warning to heart. Students have been successfully prosecuted and left University with a criminal record. Fire drills Fire drills are held regularly. Their objective is to familiarise you with the routine to be followed in the event of fire. Treat them seriously, because there may be a real fire.

36 36 SAFETY FOR STUDENTS STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Check how to get out and identify a safe alternative route should your normal exit be blocked. Check the location of fire alarms, fire extinguishers and fire blankets. Check the sound of the fire alarm in your accommodation. On hearing the alarm, leave the building immediately using the nearest available route. Do not assume that it is a false alarm or test. If there is a fire, time spent talking might reduce your chances of evacuations safely. Remember GET OUT, CALL THE FIRE BRIGADE OUT, AND STAY OUT! Do not interfere with fire doors by holding or wedging them open. When properly closed, fire doors will hold back smoke and gases and provide you with a means of escape. Smoking Smoking is prohibited in all University Buildings and University allocated accommodation. If you smoke outside make sure you extinguish your cigarette and do not smoke in areas where there are combustible items. Open flames Tea-lights and candles have become very popular. However, they provide a direct source of ignition for fires. They are not only a danger to you in your room but also to other people living in the accommodation. Fire caused by tea-lights and candles are entirely avoidable and the University prohibits their use. Electrical Safety Electrically-powered equipment manufactured to normal commercial standards and in good condition should not present any electrical danger as all dangerous parts should be fully enclosed. Students are strictly forbidden to carry out any work which might give rise to the danger of electrocution. This includes, for example, attempting to repair/adjust electrical appliances and connecting defective or dangerous appliances to the mains. All electrical work must be carried out by competent persons, i.e. qualified electricians employed by the University Estates Office or suitable contractors. The use of heaters, and especially radiant electrical heaters, is strictly forbidden. They have been the cause of life-threatening fires and students contravening this prohibition can expect severe penalties. Electrical socket outlets in study bedrooms and elsewhere are to be used to supply one appliance. The use of extension leads and multi-way adaptors can lead to overloading of the electrical systems, which may trip overload protection devices (fuses, circuit breakers, etc) or even cause a fire. These devices should only be used after consulting the site porter. Overseas students wishing to use portable appliances operating on voltages other than the British national standard of 230 volts (alternating current) should consult the University Safety Services Office. Operating appliances designed for use on voltages other than 230 V can cause fires when connected to the University mains supply. Small electrical cooking appliances such as toasters, kettles and microwaves, etc may only be connected to the mains in kitchens. The use of electrical appliances in socket outlets in corridors is strictly prohibited other than for equipment used by cleaning staff. Equipment must not be plugged into light bulb sockets, or connected to systems intended solely for lighting purposes. In general, desk lamps ought not to be fitted with bulbs exceeding 40 watts. The lamp should always be switched off when changing bulbs. Important note: The responsibility for the safety of personal electrical equipment rests with the owner. Students using their own electrical appliances should regularly check for defects, and in particular look for: Broken plugs. Frayed, chafed, cracked or split supply cables. Signs of overheating, eg. scorch marks, blackening or blistering. Dangerous connections at the appliance and plug ends of the cable. Cable grips should hold both the outer and inner sheathing securely. Rattling or other looseness in the plug or appliance which might indicate an internal fault. Safety checks of students' own electrical appliances will be carried out. This service is offered free-of-charge by Residential Services, check notice boards for dates. Any repairs found necessary will be made and an appropriate charge levied. Entertainment: Special arrangements must be made for electrical safety in the provision of power supplies for lighting, instruments etc. In all cases, the standards of electrical safety must conform to those set down in Electrical Safety for Entertainers Ref. INDG 247 published by the Health and Safety Executive ( and available from the Safety Office (Internal Tel: 2426 or External (0116) ). Organisers of events should be aware that acceptable standards of electrical safety are a condition of any licence granted for that event. Failure to comply with standards as set down may result in the revocation of the licence, refusal of future licences and prosecution.

37 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES SAFETY FOR STUDENTS 37 Kitchen Safety Kitchens contain all the elements needed for a fire fuel, air and ignition sources. If the kitchen gets hot and smelly from cooking, open the window not the door. Leaving cooking unattended WILL lead to fires. Photographs on the left are from separate fire incidents reported at University of Leicester student accommodation. Burns and scalds Scalds can be caused by steam, hot water, hot soup or beverages, or hot oil, and burn injuries can be caused by hot utensils, flames, etc. To avoid these injuries: Lift lids off cooking utensils carefully to avoid the steam. Turn pan handles away from you when cooking, to avoid knocking them. Turn off the oven before going out, answering phone calls or attending to visitors. Do not directly hold utensils containing hot liquids use oven mitts. Deep fat/oil frying The most common cause of fires and injuries particularly in self-catering accommodation is cooking chips and other deep fat frying. The use of deep fat fryers/chip pans is prohibited. Microwave ovens Keep them clean so that they work effectively. Keep door seals clean by wiping frequently with a soft, damp cloth and, if necessary, by cleaning out food particles. Never use a sharp pointed knife or similar. This will ruin the seal. Keep metal out of the microwave. Some metal items are specifically designed for microwave use. However, if in doubt, do not put metal into the microwave even the gold line on a piece of crockery will cause sparking and damage. Beware all kinds of closed containers. Bottles, jars, strong cartons even eggs will explode if subjected to microwave radiation. Open containers fully and remove caps and closures from bottles and jars. (Do not simply loosen them; the contents can expand into the neck, seal it and then dry quickly to create a closed container). Do not run a microwave cooker without a load (something to be heated). This may damage the cooker. Beware of superheating. Superheating is the phenomenon in which a liquid is heated to a temperature higher than its boiling point, without boiling. However, once the liquid is disturbed (by stirring, jolting the container or adding a further substance) some of it violently flashes to steam, spraying boiling water out of the container.

38 38 SAFETY FOR STUDENTS STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 Foods and implements Keep knives used for food preparation sharp. Dull knives are very much harder to use and are liable to slip and cut you. Never cut towards you when using a knife or other sharp implement. Keep knives separate from other washing up. Groping around in murky washing-up water is a recipe for lacerated fingers. Clean sharp knives one at a time using a brush or mop, and wiping from handle to blade tip with the back of the blade facing into the web between thumb and forefinger. If a knife falls let it! Use a good quality opener for canned foods, one that does not leave sharp edges on the lid. Utensils Discard chipped and cracked glass and crockery by wrapping in thick layers of newspaper and putting in an outside bin. Wash glasses separately, to prevent breakages and cut fingers. If you break a glass, use a brush to gather up the pieces never your hands. Search the kitchen carefully for bits when a glass is broken. Glass fragments fly in all directions, and are often discovered later (by bare feet!). Food Hygiene Germs are widespread. Most surfaces (including human skin) have their population of microorganisms. Whist most microorganisms are harmless, some can cause sickness either by infection, or by producing toxins when growing in food materials. For this reason, perishable foodstuff should be stored in the refrigerator, as low temperatures slow down microorganism growth. Cooking destroys microorganisms, however it is necessary to cook food for long enough to raise the temperature adequately throughout the food. If food is left at warm temperatures bacteria build up and produce toxins. Subsequent cooking may destroy bacteria but may not destroy all toxins. Germs are killed at high temperatures and are slowed down by refrigeration. The best ways of avoiding food contamination and food poisoning are to: Keep food frozen or refrigerated. Do not keep food longer than recommended. Discard any 'doubtful' food. Do not store fresh food (intended to be cooked) with precooked food (which is to be eaten as it is). Any germs in the fresh food can be transferred to the pre- cooked food. Cook food thoroughly. Outer food colour is NOT a reliable indicator of an adequate internal temperature. Take special care when using leftovers. Cook thoroughly. Do not sneeze, cough or touch your mouth or face when handling food. Keep pans, kitchen tools, glass, crockery, fridges and food storage areas clean. Food scraps, crumbs and open containers encourage vermin that carry disease. Wash your hands often when handling food (and always after using the toilet). Keep towels, tea-towels and washcloths clean and dry them quickly (and safely not near an open flame). A warm, damp cloth that has been used to wipe food from hands is an ideal breeding ground for germs. Avoid handling food if you have an injury or a skin condition. Cover cuts with a clean, waterproof adhesive dressing. Dangerous Substances Many substances used domestically are dangerous if not used with care. Only use substances for the purpose for which they are supplied. Before using any substances, check the directions for health and safety information and follow them carefully. Be particularly wary when using products marked as follows: These will damage human tissue, causing painful and disfiguring burns. Protect your skin with a pair of good quality rubber or plastic gloves and keep arms covered. If in contact with eyes or skin wash off with lots of water immediately. If ingested seek immediate medical attention.

39 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES SAFETY FOR STUDENTS 39 Eyes are particularly vulnerable. If in contact with eyes or skin wash off with lots of water immediately. If ingested seek immediate medical attention. You can gain better protection by wearing gloves and eye protection. Most household substances bleach, scouring powder, toilet cleaners, disinfectants, detergents etc. are designed to dissolve grease, remove stains or shift things like burnt- on fat. It follows that they will damage you if used carelessly and without adequate personal protection. Take extra care with things such as aerosol cans of oven cleaner. Sprayed into the corner of an oven, the spray can fly back into your face and eyes and is highly corrosive. Wipe-on types of oven cleaner are safer. NEVER MIX HOUSEHOLD SUBSTANCES. They are designed to work on their own, and mixing can result in danger. Be especially wary of substances designed to unblock drains. If a drain is blocked contact your Manager, Hall Warden or Sub-Warden. Do not attempt to unblock it yourself. Domestic Hazards Many more accidents happen at home than at work. A simple safety routine, and attention to a few basic rules, can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Think carefully when storing things. Do not put heavy objects on high shelves if you can avoid it. They are more difficult to put up and take down, and if they fall, they are liable to inflict more serious injury. Load free-standing shelves and bookcases with care, to avoid top-heaviness and overturning. Take great care with medicines. Students under medical supervision and taking regular doses of tablets or medicines should ensure these are kept in a secure place to reduce the risk of theft and misuse by others. DO NOT transfer drugs and medicines to other especially unmarked containers The same is true of all kinds of drinks. The history of accident prevention is littered with stories of bleach in lemonade bottles, (bright red) brake fluid in a cherryade bottle, and paint stripper in a container originally designed for shampoo. The most common accident is often the most preventable SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS. Being surrounded by clutter gives rise to the danger of slipping, tripping and falling. Rugs and mats on smooth floors are dangerous. If you must have them, fix some wide double-sided sticky tape to the back to stop them slipping. Keep trailing electrical leads to a minimum and out of your way, as you move about. Apart from the obvious danger of tripping over, and cables being pulled out of plugs, snagging cables can easily result in damage to expensive electrical appliances. Danger of falls. Occasionally, reports are received of students risking their lives by climbing on to roofs, down the outsides of buildings, or sitting in window openings, sometimes many feet above the ground. DO NOT CLIMB OR SCALE BUILDINGS DO NOT SIT IN WINDOW OPENINGS OR ON WINDOW LEDGES Safe means of access' is a familiar phrase in accident prevention at work, where a range of access equipment steps, stools, ladders and scaffolds, is available. In the domestic situation, the appropriate equipment should be used where available. A chair as a safe means of access is not recommended, but if it is the only option, and where it is safe to do so, then choose one with a rigid seat (not a loose fragile upholstered one) and with sturdy, well-spaced legs. Do not stand on a swivel chair.

40 40 REGULATIONS STUDENT INFORMATION 2011/2012 THE RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES REGULATIONS CONCERNING RESIDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION 2011/2012 Period of Contract: Students are admitted to the Catered Residences for the session, which comprises three terms totalling 30 weeks. Students are admitted to the Self-Catered Residences for the session, which comprises three periods totalling either 39 or 42 weeks, as set out in their residence agreement. A student is always allocated a place in a residence and not a specific room. The University reserves the right to move any resident to another room within our accommodation at any time should this be necessary. Residents are not permitted to move to another room without the permission of the Accommodation Officer. Temporary Erasmus (Socrates), Tempus and Occasional Students will be offered and accept accommodation for the full session, complete residence periods or complete semesters, whichever is applicable to their registration. No reduction in rental for such periods will be made for late arrival or early departure. Withdrawal from Accommodation: Notice of withdrawal must be given in writing with four weeks notice to the Accommodation Office, Charles Wilson Building, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, or ed to accommodation@le.ac.uk. Withdrawal during the session, whilst remaining a registered student, will incur payment of the full amount of the total fee outstanding for the remainder of the session as determined by the residence contract. In the unusual event of withdrawal from the University before the end of the session, fees will be payable up to and including the day of departure or return of the room keys, whichever is the latter, and a residence contract cancellation fee of 100 charged. Students who apply for accommodation and either withdraw their application or decline the accommodation offered will pay an administration fee of 50 ( 75 after 30 June). Students who accept their accommodation and withdraw their acceptance before 30 June will pay a sum of 75. Students who withdraw between 1 July and 31 August will pay a sum of 100. Students who withdraw between 1 September and the Saturday before the start of the Autumn Term will pay the sum of 150. (For The Grange residents Friday before the autumn term) New students and students returning to the University at the beginning of the Autumn Term who fail to take up a previously accepted place and who give no prior notice of withdrawal may be liable to pay the full fee for the complete session. A student whose course the University terminates for reason of examination failure\ resit without residence or whose registration has lapsed, will not be permitted to take up a previously accepted place. Conduct: The effectiveness of the residences depends primarily upon the awareness of those who live in them of the needs and wishes of the community as a whole and the neighbourhood in which the residences are placed. This must inevitably involve some curtailment of personal liberty as is normal for those living in any community. Only a minimum of rules are defined but it is assumed that residents in our accommodation will be mindful of the necessity to conduct themselves in an orderly and proper fashion and not to bring either the Residences or the University into disrepute. Conduct detrimental to the good name or reputation of any residence, or serious or repeated breaches of regulations may lead to dismissal from residence, without recourse to the Code of Student Discipline and the matter will be reported to the Registrar and Secretary to whom the student may appeal. Such appeals will normally be heard within five working days. If residence is terminated for misconduct an administrative charge of 150 will be payable by the resident. The atmosphere within the Residences should at all times be conducive to study. Noise, especially after 2300 hours, should be minimal and excessive noise in and around the Residences and roads leading to the Residences should be avoided. Parties may be permitted on occasion in the Self-Catered Residences with the permission of the Senior Sub-Residential Adviser who will impose some conditions and liabilities. Parties are not permitted at Opal Court or in the Oadby Student Village. Ball games and other noisy activities are not permitted within the grounds of the Residences. Deposits: Postgraduate and International students are required to pay a deposit of 250 with their application for accommodation. The 250 deposit is a prepayment and will be deducted from the Summer Term residence fee (except for residents living in Opal Court and the Grange where the deposit is retained as a damage deposit and refunded at the end of the residence contract period, less any damage or other charges or outstanding debt). Withdrawal fees, cancellation charges and administration charges will also be deducted from the deposit. At all the Residences a key deposit of 30 is payable online prior to arrival and refunded via the same payment method, after deducting any outstanding charges. Except Opal Court and The Grange. Visitors: Residents are responsible for the conduct of their guests. Overnight guests are not permitted in the Catered Residences and guests must leave by a reasonable hour. Guests are allowed to stay overnight in the Self-Catered Residences but are not allowed to occupy the accommodation of a resident for more than twenty-four hours or two such periods over a Saturday and Sunday. Opal Court and The Grange: The University administers the allocation of accommodation and fees for these properties. University Regulations still apply in all properties. Students must sign a separate residence contract for these properties and where there is any doubt the contract with these property providers will take precedence. Residence Fees: Residence fees are payable in advance as set out in the Residence Agreement and Accommodation Handbook on the dates specified. Failure to pay before the deadline date will incur the additional fees set out in the Handbook. Refer to website No reduction in fees for late arrival or early departure or periods of absence will be made. Students absent from a catered residence through certified illness for a period of two weeks or more may apply to receive a partial refund for the period after the initial two weeks. Fees for residents transferring rooms will be adjusted with immediate effect to the new rate applicable. Where students move out of shared accommodation the fee is adjusted for both the person who moves and for those who remain. All students agree with the terms and conditions when they tick the box prior to taking up their accommodation. This indicates they accept the regulations in the Accommodation Handbook and Residence Agreement in addition to these regulations.

41 Safety Services Office IMPORTANT - Fire Action All University buildings have built in Fire Safety systems of high standards that alert you to a real or potential fire, protect you from its effects and enable you to make your way to a place of safety. You have a responsibility to cooperate and act IMMEDIATELY when you hear the fire alarm. FIRE NOTICES Fire notices are posted throughout all buildings informing you of what to do in case of fire. Make sure that you are familiar with the arrangements in your building(s) IF YOU DISCOVER A FIRE Sound the alarm by breaking the glass in the nearest fire alarm call point Fire action ON DISCOVERING A FIRE 1. Sound the alarm. 2. Dial 888 to call the fire brigade. 3. If possible tackle the fire using the appliances provided. (Do not endanger yourself or others in doing so). ON HEARING THE FIRE ALARM 4. Leave the building by the nearest available exit when directed to do so. 5. Close all doors behind you. 6. Report to the assembly point. 7. Do not take risks. Do not stop to collect personal belongings. Do not use lifts. Do not re-enter the building for any reason unless authorised to do so. GO TO THE ASSEMBLY POINT In front of the Fielding Johnson Building IF YOU HEAR THE FIRE ALARM Leave the building by the nearest available exit Close doors in the vicinity and evacuate the building If it is practicable and safe to do so switch off equipment Go to the Assembly Point and await instructions from Staff. Call the Fire Service - Dial 888; 999 or 222 (check the Fire action notice in the building) Tackle the fire only if you are trained and it is safe to do so do not take risks Make your way to the Assembly Point and await instructions from Staff. DO NOT - Stop to collect personal belongings - Use the lift unless authorised to do so - Re-enter the building for any reason unless authorised to do so REMEMBER YOUR RESPONSIBILITY WHEN THE FIRE ALARM SOUNDS COOPERATE AND EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY