Consider (potentially alongside UoS) napping sites on campus.
Anonymous submitted on
Monday 17th November 2025
Complete
I'm aware that currently there is a plan to refurbish B42, and a different project to potentially redevelop Hartley Library, both of these open the door to potentially exploring the addition of napping spaces. The Hartley Library Transformation Project states 'wellbeing' as one of its desired impacts, and the introduction of sleeping facilities on campus will, in principle, go a long way to supporting wellbeing.
It may sound a bit useless considering how close halls of residence are to campus, however, it may still benefit some individuals, particularly in between the awkward downtimes between lectures or in-between study sessions.
I have often seen individuals sleeping at their desks in the library, therefore we can assume that the demand is there to a certain extent; freeing up valuable space during exam seasons and ensuring students get the rest they need in a way that ensures their safety and comfort.
This has already been done at a variety of other institutions in the UK, such as:
1. King's College London Students' Union have 'sleeping pods' (https://www.kclsu.org/news/article/6015/A-Guide-to-SU-Spaces/)
2. The University of Manchester have a 'Zzz Zone' (https://www.library.manchester.ac.uk/locations-and-opening-hours/learning-commons/)
3. University of East Anglia Students' Union have a 'napping nook' (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php)
4. City St George's University of London Students' Union have a 'nap pod' (https://www.facebook.com/CityStGeorgesSU/posts/we-have-a-brand-new-nap-pod-in-the-rhind-building-its-located-on-the-left-as-you/1525980364950617/)
There are international comparsions too (such as in the United States) but I thought they may not be as relevant! I'd be happy to share them if asked though.
Responses
Here, you can view the complete set of official responses from the sabbatical officers regarding this submission.
Emma Brown replied on
Thursday 22nd Jan 2026 11:21am
Hi there,
I am closing this YMC now as I've brought this suggestion to all relevant staff who can look into the feasibility of this idea, however do expect this will take some time to implement as it comes alongside some other hefty renovations (SUSU renovation project, Hartley Library Transformation). Unfortunately, the university is facing some cost-saving measures at the moment, so resources are very limited, so we'll have to see what's possible. In the meantime, do enjoy the bean bags in the SUSU Veg Out area.
Thank you.
All the best,
Emma Brown
Union President
Emma Brown replied on
Monday 24th Nov 2025 9:03am
Hi there,
Thanks for this request - it sounds like a fantastic idea, and I appreciate the comparison to other unis with sources! We're still in the consultation period for the B42 renovation, so this is something we can likely integrate into the design. I'll also raise it to some of the Estates projects I sit on, including the Hartley Library Transformation project, as they are happy to hear this feedback from students. I've also done a bit of asking around, and this seems to be something that a lot of students want - so I'm glad you've submitted this idea.
I'll get in touch on here when I get some updates, although expect it to take a while due to the lengthy time it typically takes for estates projects to be complete. In the meantime, feel free to nap on the bean bags in the plant pot. It's not quite the same as a proper napping spot, but I have found them quite comfortable!
All the best,
Emma Brown
Union President
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Forwarded to Union President
Monday 17th Nov 2025 9:57am
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