OUR SECTION 172 STATEMENT continued University partners Suppliers Communities and the environment University partners are key strategic stakeholders, directly accounting for around half of our reservations each year under nomination agreements and the other half indirectly through their students who book directly with us. The Board is regularly updated on trends in the Higher Education sector in the UK and globally, which inform the Group’s strategy around the universities with which it seeks to partner over the long term. We seek to play an active role in local communities and build trusted, long-term relationships with community partners. As a Great Place to Live, Work and Invest, we proactively manage environmental, social and governance risks. The Board recognises the importance of supplier relationships and is provided with regular updates throughout the year. Annual Higher Education engagement survey increased +40. You can read more – page 15. With oversight from the Board, our Higher Education Engagement team and Student Support team meet regularly with university leaders and teams to discuss this strategic planning as well as day-to-day operational requirements. Board oversight of a new joint venture with Newcastle University. Board oversight and engagement Through the Sustainability Committee, the Board has oversight of our sustainable procurement framework and receives regular updates. During 2025, the Board monitored the ongoing implementation and progress of our sustainable procurement framework - pages 11 and 109. Board oversight and engagement The Board and Sustainability Committee received regular updates on our Positive Impact programme. Through the Sustainability Committee, the Board has oversight of our environmental impact through continued review of our sustainability framework - pages 83 and 109. During 2025, the Board supported our commitment to deliver 1,000 new beds in our local communities. Board oversight and engagement THE UNITE GROUP PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2025 92 GOVERNANCE