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Our history

We became the first purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) provider more than 30 years ago and have since built up data and insight that helps us constantly improve our product and the experience for students.

30 years of Unite Students

2021 marked Unite Students’ 30th anniversary. We have put together a list of 30 milestones we’re most proud of over the last three decades and spoken to three former residents to find out what it was like to live with us, how their university experience has shaped them, and what they’ve gone on to do since graduating.

Our key milestones

  • 2022
  • 2021
  • 2020
  • 2019
  • 2018
  • 2017
  • 2016
  • 2015
  • 2014
  • 2013
  • 2012
  • 2006
  • 2000
  • 1999
  • 1998
  • 1992
  • 1991
  • 2022

    We launched ‘Living Black at University’ – a major new report into Black students’ experience in UK student accommodation and we called on universities and student accommodation providers to collaborate across the Higher Education sector and take meaningful action in order to address these issues.

    Living Black at University

  • 2021

    Launched our five sustainability commitments, including a commitment to become net-zero carbon in building developments and operations by 2030.

  • 2020

    Acquired Liberty Living, reinforcing our position as the UK’s leading PBSA provider.


    Became the first PBSA provider to waive rental payments during the Covid-19 pandemic and launched the Home Charter to create a safer environment for students. In total, provided £100 million of student support.


    Signed the Community Race at Work Charter, committing to improve equality, diversity and inclusion.

  • 2019

    Leapskills programme endorsed by Department for Education as “a great tool in bridging the gap between sixth form and university and preparing our students for the future”.

  • 2018

    Launched digitisation of services, including introduction of an online student check-in system and the Common Room, a digital peer-to-peer student advice forum, accessible via the MyUnite app. 


    Launched Leapskills programme, helping young people transition to independent living.

     

  • 2017

    Unite Group converted to a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT).  


    Achieved 100% certified renewable energy across the entire business.  

  • 2016

    Launched China sales office and website.  

  • 2015

    Became the PBSA sector’s first Real Living Wage employer. 

  • 2014

    Joined the National Union of Students (NUS) Green Impact scheme. 

  • 2013

    Launched our student wellbeing programme.

  • 2012

    Created the London Student Accommodation Vehicle (LSAV), a 50-50 joint venture with Singapore sovereign wealth fund GIC. 


    Launched the Unite Foundation, providing scholarships for students lacking family support, including free accommodation and living expense contributions.

  • 2006

    Formed Unite UK Student Accommodation Fund (USAF), Europe’s largest unlisted specialist student accommodation fund.  

  • 2000

    Listed on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange.

  • 1999

    Listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM).

  • 1998

    Opened first London property. 

  • 1992

    Opened first property in Bristol.

  • 1991

    Unite Group founded in Bristol. 

Spotlight on Bristol

30 years in Bristol

We have a special relationship with the city of Bristol and the local community built over three decades and provide extensive support to local organisations particularly those working with young people and the city’s homeless population.