In response to Mike Stimpson's letter (January 18), poor-quality housing is an issue the University of Brighton's Students' Union is passionate about and we are pleased the issues have been brought into the public forum.

There are many good landlords and agencies which students have the pleasure of renting from.

However, some students have experienced unsafe housing and poor-quality service from agencies.

Our student advice centre received more than 200 housing-related inquiries last term - a number of which were in relation to disrepair and withheld deposits.

This doesn't event take into account those who just put up with unsafe conditions they are not protected from.

The university has an accommodation policy and a housing department which manages a large portfolio of bed spaces to supplement its halls but cannot provide for all students.

There is not enough quality accommodation to meet current needs, which is why the university was disappointed not to get planning permission for the new halls.

I would welcome the opportunity to work with Mr Stimpson, the council and student representatives of Brighton to tackle the issue of poor-quality housing and to work towards a housing scheme which ensures a high safety standard in all rented accommodation.

-Becca Mann, president, Students' Union, University of Brighton