Your Insight Makes the Difference: A Thank You to Our Auditors

When people think about the UUK/GuildHE Accommodation Code of Practice, they often picture a set of rules and standards designed to keep students safe, comfortable, and supported in their accommodation. And while that’s true, there’s something even more important that makes The Code work in practice — auditors. 

Our auditors are the human connection between The Code’s words on the page and the lived experience of students in halls of residence and other managed accommodation. You’re the ones who visit, observe, ask the right questions, and notice the small details that others might miss. Your work turns a checklist into a conversation, and a conversation into real improvements. 

Auditing is never just about compliance — it’s about building trust. When you walk into a building, you bring not only your expertise but also a genuine commitment to student wellbeing. You help providers see what’s working well and where they can do better, always with a focus on making life safer, fairer, and more comfortable for students. That’s why your feedback is so valued. It’s not just accurate and thorough — it’s constructive and encouraging. 

Many accommodation teams tell us they look forward to their audits. Yes, really! They value the fresh perspective you bring, and the way you share examples of good practice from across the sector. You have that rare ability to blend professional scrutiny with a supportive approach, so that even when you’re highlighting areas for improvement, it feels like part of a shared mission rather than a criticism. 

Your work also helps The Code itself grow and adapt. As student needs change, technology advances, and new challenges emerge, your observations and recommendations keep us grounded in reality. You make sure our standards are not only rigorous but also practical and relevant to the world students are living in right now. 

The impartiality you bring adds weight and credibility to the whole process. University providers know they can trust your judgement; students know The Code is more than just words; and we know we can rely on you to keep raising the bar for quality. 

So this is a heartfelt thank you from all of us at The Code. We appreciate the long days, the careful notes, the thoughtful conversations, and the professional pride you bring to every audit. Most of all, we appreciate the difference you make. Students benefit from better, safer, and more welcoming accommodation because of the work you do — and that’s something worth celebrating. 

We look forward to working alongside you in the year ahead, knowing that your insight, skill, and dedication will continue to be at the heart of what makes The Code so effective.

Paul Burns UUK Code Chair of CAS