Sheffield Hallam University

In 2007 Derwent fm began working in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University to deliver their off-site student accommodation, the Trigon. Derwent fm began working within the site during its build and have made continuous improvements on the property since.

The Trigon comprises of 361 en-suite bedrooms within cluster flats with between 3-6 students. Each flat has a kitchen and lounge area. Additional communal areas include: student reception, laundry room, common room and outdoor social space.

Having worked within the property for 12 years, there are a number of challenges that have been faced during the management of the accommodation.

  •  Building works on site
  •  Repairs required to a large number of rooms
  •  Continuous improvements required

Effective management of health and safety

We began the facilities management of the Trigon during the build stages of the property. After the completion of the first phase, the site was opened to students. During the first year of opening, the building of phase two was still underway. As a result, the management of health and safety was key to ensuing a high quality service. With full engagement from our head of health and safety and the effect management of risk assessments and risk mitigation, we were able to provide a safe live environment for students and staff whilst building works were still underway on site.

Timely repairs dealt with in-house

Having brought the facilities management in house it has created a great experience for students as repairs are actioned rapidly. With an electrician in the team, electrical repairs and replacements are resolved without lengthy waiting times. This provides a much better service to the students as they rec- ognise and come to know the staff who are entering their flats which creates a feeling of safety within their home.

Effective lifecycle management

This site has undergone some vital refurbishments, at 12 years of age it was starting to date and there were several areas where students struggled. These were identified through focus group and surveys carried out regularly. Continuous improvements have been made through: the replacement of single beds to 4ft beds, the replacement of easily stained carpets with modern Karndean real wood planking, the replacement of fridge freezers with a large fridge and a large freezer, the addition of room assigned cupboard space and the replacement of fabric, one piece sofas with vinyl/leather mix modular sofas that can replaced section by section if damaged.

Project stats

Location:

Sheffield

Value:

£383k p/a

Size:

361 bedrooms