The University of Edinburgh
Community Access to Rooms
Finalist, Benefitting Society
About
The pioneering Community Access to Rooms scheme was launched by the University of Edinburgh in 2022. It offers local community groups and organisations University rooms free of charge outside of core business hours. To date, 200 local groups and organisations have used space totalling over 10,500 hours. The initiative is the largest and most systematic space ’meanwhile use’ scheme offered by any UK university. Beneficiary groups have included English language classes for migrants (including refugees and asylum seekers), neighbourhood associations, crochet clubs, choirs, and grassroots theatre companies. As well as providing significant financial savings by eliminating room hire fees, there is evidence that the scheme has reduced social isolation, strengthened community bonds and supported the local arts sector. Community Access to Rooms has been a key commitment of current and past University Community Plans and recognised as a Scottish Government Social Impact Pledge, ensuring long term support for local communities.
Top 3 learnings
- Having faith to trust in our local community has allowed the scheme to flourish.
- A carefully managed, staged approach has allowed us to scale successfully and ensured ongoing confidence.
- Staff are proud to be involved, which means they take steps to smooth its progression.
What would it mean to win
Winning a Green Gown Award would be a significant recognition of the University of Edinburgh's leadership in addressing sustainability, climate and nature crisis in the Higher Education sector and beyond. The award would acknowledge the collective efforts of staff, students and partners who continue to embed sustainability across the institution and would provide valuable external validation of the University's commitment to moving beyond net zero towards environmental regeneration. It would also strengthen the University's ability to inspire and influence others, demonstrating how other colleagues within our community but also at other universities can play a pivotal role in delivering climate action.
SDG
| 2026 | |
| Benefitting Society | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
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Green Gown Award Regions
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