Posted 12 June 2026

For many young people, accommodation is simply one of several factors to consider when choosing a Higher Education (HE) provider. For care-experienced learners, however, it can be one of the most important considerations of all. 

Many students can return to a family home during holidays or rely on parents and relatives to act as guarantors, provide deposits, or offer financial support if things become difficult. Care-experienced young people may not have access to the same networks, which means accommodation can be a significant source of concern when considering higher education. 

That is why it is so important that students understand what support is available before they apply. Many providers offer specific support packages for care-experienced students, which may include accommodation bursaries, financial assistance, year-round housing, or support with guarantor requirements. Asking whether accommodation forms part of a wider support package can help young people identify providers that recognise their circumstances and are committed to helping them succeed. 

There are also different accommodation options to explore. Provider-managed halls of residence are often a popular choice for first-year students, offering a ready-made community and easy access to campus facilities. Private student accommodation and shared houses can provide alternative options depending on a student’s preferences and circumstances. The key is ensuring that young people have the information they need to weigh up the benefits, costs, and practicalities of each. 

For care-experienced learners, some additional questions can be particularly valuable. Is accommodation available throughout the year, including holiday periods? What happens if a student does not have a guarantor? Is financial support available to help with deposits or upfront costs? Can accommodation payments be aligned with student finance instalments? Understanding the answers to these questions can help remove uncertainty and build confidence. 

This is where professionals can play an important role. Teachers, carers, personal advisers and other trusted adults can help young people to explore their options and encourage them to ask questions early. Accommodation is often discussed late in the application process, but for some students it can be a deciding factor in whether higher education feels achievable at all. 

Resources from Go Higher West Yorkshire (GHWY) can support these conversations by signposting young people and professionals to information about higher education, student support and transition planning. By helping learners understand the support available, we can ensure accommodation is viewed not as a barrier, but as part of a successful transition into higher education. 

For care-experienced young people, feeling safe, secure and supported in their living arrangements can make a huge difference to their HE experience. Taking the time to ask questions and explore available support can help turn what feels like a challenge into an opportunity to thrive. 

 

Rob Scott, GHWY Training Delivery Officer