Image Promo description

Register to use our site and access free newsletters, book events and lots more.

You don't have to be a member to use our site. Already registered? Login here

Become a member today

The Chartered Institute of Housing is the independent voice for housing and the home of professional standards

or browse by topic

Blogs and features

Comment and opinion on the latest housing topics

Read blogs from experts across CIH and the wider housing sector and in-depth features on the hottest topics in housing. See what's important to us and join the debates by adding your comments too.

Become a guest blogger
Want to share your views on a housing topic that you're passionate about? Get in touch today.

 

Sort by:Date (Descending) | Date (Ascending) | Title

Eliminating the worst element of private renting: rogue landlords

In this guest blog, Martha Mackenzie, Stakeholder Relations Assistant at Shelter, introduces the 'Evict rogue landlords' campaign.

17/05/2013

Type:Blog

Housing 2013: Challenging thinking, finding solutions

CIH President Paul Tennant introduces what's in store at the Housing 2013 exhibition.

15/05/2013

Type:Blog

Speaker's hub: Resident advice on welfare reform

The events team interviewed Phil Brady, head of neighbourhoods at Greensquare Group to find out his views on continuing to provide information and advice to residents following the changes to welfare reform. Read his blog for more details.

14/05/2013

Type:Blog

Housing and care in Northern Ireland

Last week we published a new report - Delivering housing, health and care outcomes - and in the midst of the ‘transforming your care’ debate in Northern Ireland, it seems timely to reflect on the role of housing in supporting independent living. Read the latest blog by CIH director, Cecilia Keaveny.

14/05/2013

Type:Blog

Rising Stars 2013: The campaigns are taking shape

The latest blogs from Rising Stars 2013 finalists Catherine Attenborough, Peter Bond and Sarah Morton give us further insight into their campaigns.

13/05/2013

Type:Blog

A changing housing landscape in Northern Ireland

In this guest blog, Paul McNeill, independent housing consultant shares his thoughts on the effects of the proposed changes to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and the opportunities it brings for increased investment, better homes and improved services for tenants.

10/05/2013

Type:Blog

Changes on the front line

How has working on the front line of housing changed over the last decade - and what can we expect in the years to come? Shaun Aldis, director of property services at Wolverhampton Homes, looks at the future of the industry ahead of CIH's 10th annual Caretakers' and Estate Managers' Conference.

08/05/2013

Type:Blog

Should I stay or should I go?

It’s not often that fighting fires is a viable strategy for housing services. Julie Nicholas, policy and public affairs manager at CIH Cymru, takes a sideways look at the challenges of housing older people by way of Australian bush-fires.

29/04/2013

Type:Blog

Setting up a social lettings agency

The London Borough of Havering was one of the first councils in the country to set up its own social lettings agency. Housing strategy manager Martin Pereira outlines how they can boost the supply of affordable rented accommodation for local people while operating at a profit.

29/04/2013

Type:Blog

Using videos to communicate your message

With an increasing number of housing providers using videos to engage with tenants, staff and stakeholders, Peter Sims of film production company 7Video outlines some of the dos and don’ts you need to bear in mind.

26/04/2013

Type:Blog

Language on probationary tenancies isn’t helpful

In a week which has seen Shelter Scotland and a range of other bodies urging the Scottish Government not to progress plans to make new social housing tenancies probationary, David Bookbinder, head of policy and public affairs at CIH Scotland challenges some of the perceived concerns over the policy.

25/04/2013

Type:Blog

Speaker's hub: repairs and maintenance

How can housing organisations maintain repairs and maintentance standards as the impact of welfare reform starts to hit budgets? Wrekin Housing Trust director Wayne Gethings, who is chairing CIH's repairs and maintenance conference in May, shares his thoughts

24/04/2013

Type:Blog

Housing Finance - the cornerstone of the industry

Housing finance – it might not necessarily sound like the sexiest of topics, but it is the cornerstone upon which the industry is built.

23/04/2013

Type:Blog

Year of practice - in numbers

Policy and practice officer David Pipe looks back on CIH's year of practice, which aimed to help housing providers deal with big changes like welfare reform while continuing to get the basics right.

22/04/2013

Type:Blog

The Big Lunch - will you be taking part?

In this guest blog, Forum Housing Association shares its experience of how hosting a Big Lunch event helped to break down barriers in the community.

19/04/2013

Type:Blog

A step in the right direction

After housing minister Mark Prisk tabled a last-minute amendment to the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Bill to better regulate letting agents, policy manager Sian Sankey takes a look at the potential consequences.

16/04/2013

Type:Blog

What you need to know about welfare reform

Making best use of stock advisor Melanie Rees shares her thoughts on the impact of welfare reform - and the bedroom tax in particular - ahead of CIH events in London and Manchester.

15/04/2013

Type:Blog

How will social housing be regulated in the future?

The Homes and Communities Agency regulation committee outlined new proposals for tougher regulation earlier this week, and wants to hear feedback from social housing providers. CIH assistant director of policy and practice Abigail Davies looks at the new proposals.

12/04/2013

Type:Blog

'Number one issue is the need for more new homes'

What are the biggest challenges facing housing providers in London? Family Mosaic chief executive and g15 vice chair Brendan Sarsfield – who will be chairing CIH’s first Annual London Conference at the end of April – shares his views.

11/04/2013

Type:Blog

Creating sustainable tenancies

Welfare reform is having a big impact on landlords and tenants – Anna O'Halloran of CIH Consultancy and Cath Davies of CD Consulting explain how their latest project, working together to create sustainable tenancies, can help.

10/04/2013

Type:Blog

The fast track - Renting Homes (Wales) Bill

Against the backdrop of immense upheaval to the welfare system it’s been easy to forget that there are other significant changes on the horizon for Welsh housing. Here’s our quick update on the upcoming Renting Homes (Wales) Bill in four questions.

09/04/2013

Type:Blog

Focus on welfare reform

In an article first published in Conversations Inspired by Housing magazine, we outline the impact the government's controversial welfare reform is likely to have - and what CIH is doing to help - as well as looking at issues specific to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

09/04/2013

Type:Blog

Prevention is better than cure

Strict new measures to control the quality of building projects have come too late for many, but could prove vitally important for generations to come, says CIH Northern Ireland director Cecilia Keaveney.

09/04/2013

Type:Blog

Top skills for leaders

What are the top five skills every leader should have? We asked CIH’s LinkedIn group to share their thoughts. Communication, the ability to motivate and inspire people, adaptability and strategic thinking were all common themes when we asked the 900-plus members of CIH’s LinkedIn group what they thought were the most important skills for leadership. Here are just some of the responses:

08/04/2013

Type:Blog

Bedroom tax bandwagons in Scotland

David Bookbinder, head of policy and public affairs at CIH Scotland shares his thoughts on the 'hype' and 'bandwagons' resulting from the introduction of the 'bedroom tax', notably the 'no eviction' policies adopted by a number of SNP-led councils.

04/04/2013

Type:Blog

'It's vital that landlords stay up to date'

After MPs raised concerns about direct payment of housing benefit increasing arrears, policy and practice officer David Pipe explains how CIH can help landlords keep up to date with the latest from the direct payment demonstration projects.

04/04/2013

Type:Blog

No room for manoeuvre: overcrowding and size criteria

Amid the rumours and anxiety already surrounding the introduction of the bedroom tax Julie Nicholas responds to one of the many questions from tenants that Welsh landlords are encountering.

04/04/2013

Type:Blog

Speaker's hub: Housing goes digital

Halton Housing Trust chief executive Nick Atkin shares his views on the key role social media will play in housing in 2013 ahead of CIH's Housing goes digital (#hgd13) event.

02/04/2013

Type:Blog

Resolving conflict: planning for Gypsy and traveller sites

Jo Richardson, principal lecturer in the department of politics and public policy at De Montfort University in Leicester, shares her research ideas on planning for Gypsy and traveller sites.

28/03/2013

Type:Blog

Mixed messages on unfinished estates of no comfort to residents

The problems faced by home owners on unfinished estate could be exacerbated by the government's decision to minimise exemptions from the new Property Tax, according to CIH NI director Cecilia Keaveney.

27/03/2013

Type:Blog

Will the property tax stop social housing from attracting finance?

CIH NI director Cecilia Keaveney warns that the Republic of Ireland's property tax could stop social housing from attracting finance unless government departments work more closely together to iron out the problems.

27/03/2013

Type:Blog

Welfare reform - looking to the future

CIH trainer Martin Pereira - housing strategy manager at the London Borough of Havering - shares his experience of helping people who will be affected by the bedroom tax and other forthcoming welfare reforms.

25/03/2013

Type:Blog

"It's critical that members get involved in the elections"

CIH Vice President Paul Tennant reflects on his experiences over the past 12 months – and calls on members to get involved in this year’s vote.

22/03/2013

Type:Blog

We need to talk about rents

Following the launch of CIH’s new report We need to talk about rents, policy and practice officer Laura Shimili met with a group of housing associations to discuss the options for future rent policy - and the challenges they face.

20/03/2013

Type:Blog

Rising Stars winner announced at Tai 2013

Congratulations to this year's Rising Stars winner, Cheryl Tracy. Re-cap her journey during our annual Welsh conference.

14/03/2013

Type:Blog

“My experience of online study with CIH is a positive one”

Martyn Hilliam is an Asset Management Assistant for South Cambridgeshire District Council and here he shares his experiences of studying online with CIH.

14/03/2013

Type:Blog

“Getting to know my distance learning students is rewarding"

CIH tutor, Veronica Evans, has had a colourful and varied career in housing and is now using her experience to support her students as a tutor specialising in Level 3 and 4 distance learning courses for CIH.

13/03/2013

Type:Blog

Rising Star: Cheryl Tracy’s day two

The three Rising Stars candidates have been busy networking on day two of TAI 2013. Find out what Cheryl has been up to and read her highlights in the day two blog update.

13/03/2013

Type:Blog

Rising Star: Ross Williams' Day two

The three Rising Stars candidates have been busy networking on day two of TAI 2013. Find out what Ross has been up to and read his highlights in the day two blog update.

13/03/2013

Type:Blog

Rising Star: Hannah Jones day two

The three Rising Stars candidates have been busy networking on day one of Tai 2013. Find out what Hannah has been up to and read her highlights in the day two blog update.

13/03/2013

Type:Blog

Edwards denies 'Bowie for TAI' rumours

Our man in the music industry, Paul Diggory, gives us the inside track on the latest housing-related music gossip. Whilst some or all of this article may be fictional, see if you can spot the 14 singles and 3 album titles hidden in the text!

13/03/2013

Type:Blog

Where the streets have no people

Paul Diggory was struck by the efficacy of George Clarke's ability to get empty homes on the government radar. Here he gives us the run down on George's keynote address to TAI 2013.

13/03/2013

Type:Blog

What homes where? CIH helps develop free online toolkit

This week saw the launch of What homes where?, a free online toolkit to help communities understand their local housing need. CIH policy manager Sian Sankey, who worked on the project, explains more.

13/03/2013

Type:Blog

Grainia's podcast from Tai 2013

CIH chief executive Grainia Long reflected on the challenges thrown up by the changing economy and reminded the housing industry not to compromise on professional standards in her presentation at Tai 2013. Listen to her post-presentation podcast.

12/03/2013

Type:Blog

Rising Star: Hannah Jones’ day one

The three Rising Stars candidates have been busy networking on day one of Tai 2013. Find out what Hannah has been up to and read her highlights in the day one blog update.

12/03/2013

Type:Blog

Rising Star: Cheryl Tracy’s day one

The three Rising Stars candidates have been busy networking on day one of Tai 2013. Find out what Cheryl has been up to and read her highlights in the day one blog update.

12/03/2013

Type:Blog

Rising Star: Ross Williams’ day one

The three Rising Stars candidates have been busy networking on day one of Tai 2013. Find out what Ross has been up to and read his highlights in the day one blog update.

12/03/2013

Type:Blog

An outside perspective... TAI 2013

Day one at TAI kicked off the conference with a bang. Megan Pugsley, writing student at Cardiff Metropolitan University, shares her experiences and highlights from a packed first day.

12/03/2013

Type:Blog

How should the arrears trigger for direct payment of housing benefit work?

CIH has joined forces with the National Housing Federation and Community Housing Cymru to advise the government, as director of policy and practice Gavin Smart explains.

06/03/2013

Type:Blog

Speaker's hub: Housing law update

Housing law experts Helen Tucker and Gail Sykes discuss the latest developments in anti-social behaviour legislation

01/03/2013

Type:Blog

Speaker's hub: challenges ahead for housing management

Trident Housing chief executive John Morris shares his views on the future of housing management ahead of CIH events in London and Manchester

28/02/2013

Type:Blog

The importance of leadership

CIH director of policy and practice Gavin Smart discusses how leadership can make the difference as the housing industry faces one of its most challenging years yet.

25/02/2013

Type:Blog

Rising Stars - do you have what it takes?

The deadline to enter Rising Stars 2013 is fast approaching. CIH head of professional practice Debbie Larner outlines the qualities essential for success.

22/02/2013

Type:Blog

Disability hate crime: we can’t ignore the warning signs

Following a worrying growth in incidences of disability hate crime housing providers can no longer afford to ignore the warning signs. Campaigner Simon Green gives the background to his experiences of disability hate crime, ahead of his session at TAI 2013 on recognising and responding to the issue.

20/02/2013

Type:Blog

Speaker's hub: Tackling anti-social behaviour

CIH anti-social behaviour consultant Chris Grose outlines some top tips for housing providers and analyses the latest policy developments.

20/02/2013

Type:Blog

More clarity needed on the bedroom tax

CIH director of policy and practice Gavin Smart looks at the issue of pensioners and the bedroom tax.

18/02/2013

Type:Blog

The community harm statement: how it worked for us

In this article, first published in Conversations Inspired by Housing, Joy Wilson, anti-nuisance manager at Helena Partnerships, shares her experience of implementing the community harm statement.

14/02/2013

Type:Blog

Speaker’s hub: How can housing providers prepare for welfare reform?

Nick Peplow, business development director at payment specialist allpay, shares his thoughts on preparing for direct payments and universal credit - the subject of his forthcoming session at CIH's South East Conference & Exhibition.

13/02/2013

Type:Blog

‘We need a national strategy for ageing well’

CIH director Domini Gunn reflects on yesterday’s government announcement on social care – and argues that a more radical approach is needed.

12/02/2013

Type:Blog

Leadership in social housing - how CIH can help

Leadership expert Dr Robert Rosenfeld examines how social housing is evolving and outlines some top tips for high-performing leaders.

11/02/2013

Type:Blog

Reflecting on Boris from Belfast

CIH NI director Cecilia Keaveney reflects on Boris Johnson's speech at the CIH Presidential Dinner - and what housing in Northern Ireland could learn.

08/02/2013

Type:Blog

'We need a long-term vision and joined-up thinking'

CIH NI director Cecilia Keaveney reflects on Boris Johnson's speech at the CIH Presidential Dinner - and considers the lessons that could be learned in Ireland.

08/02/2013

Type:Blog

Student award winners recognised at CIH Presidential Dinner

Three outstanding students have been awarded prizes by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH). The trio picked up their awards at the CIH Presidential Dinner, which took place at the Natural History Museum in London last night.

07/02/2013

Type:Blog

Tenancy Deposit Scheme offers important protection for landlords and tenants

Minister McCausland’s introduction of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme is an important step forward in protecting both landlords and tenants, according to CIH Northern Ireland Director Cecilia Keaveney.

05/02/2013

Type:Blog

‘Investing in young people can make a big difference’

Is it time to rethink our approach to services for young people? Foyer Federation chief executive Jane Slowey argues that focusing on talents and aspirations can help vulnerable youngsters make the transition to independent adulthood.

05/02/2013

Type:Blog

Mayor of London to outline housing vision at CIH Presidential Dinner

Ahead of Boris Johnson's guest speech at the CIH Presidential Dinner, chief executive Grainia Long outlines the vital role housing can play in boosting the economy in the capital and beyond.

04/02/2013

Type:Blog

Expediting the social dividend from NAMA properties in 2013

CIH NI director, Cecilia Keaveney, reflects on last week’s announcement about the increase in NAMA properties.

04/02/2013

Type:Blog

Everybody wants to change the world

Ahead of TAI 2013 CIH Cymru Director Keith Edwards warns against dropping our long term quest for progress and social justice to deal with the ‘perfect storm’ of recession, austerity and welfare reform.

01/02/2013

Type:Blog

Facing the challenges of welfare reform head on

Director of policy and practice, Gavin Smart, reflects on the results of the latest UK housing panel report.

01/02/2013

Type:Blog

Benefits and challenges of neighbourhood sustainability plans

Ahead of CIH events in London and Manchester, CIH Consultancy director Richard Medley explains how neighbourhood sustainability plans could help housing providers develop stronger neighbourhoods.

30/01/2013

Type:Blog

'More vital than ever'

As the challenges surrounding delivering affordable housing show no signs of diminishing, this year’s Home Ownership and Leasehold Management Conference and Exhibition is more important than ever. CIH conference and seminar organiser Patrick Grace explains more.

28/01/2013

Type:Blog

Why sign up to the complaints charter?

More than 20 organisations have now signed up to CIH’s new complaints charter, launched in December. Policy and practice officer David Pipe spoke to them about the benefits.

24/01/2013

Type:Blog

Housing Ireland - new issue out now

CIH director Cecilia Keaveney takes a look at the latest issue of Housing Ireland, the journal for Irish housing professionals.

22/01/2013

Type:Blog

Complaints – preparing for change

Former deputy ombudsman Rafael Runco shares his views on the introduction of the designated person ahead of CIH's latest complaints seminar.

18/01/2013

Type:Blog

‘2013 will be social, local and mobile – is housing ready?’

Social media expert Paul Taylor, innovation coach at housing group Bromford, looks ahead to his session at CIH’s South East Conference & Exhibition 2013.

18/01/2013

Type:Blog

We must prioritise housing, not politics

CIH chief executive Grainia Long argues the end of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive must mark a new beginning for housing in the country in a blog for Inside Housing

14/01/2013

Type:Blog

Speaker’s Hub: Building More Homes

In the latest speaker’s hub interview, CIH director of policy and practice Gavin Smart outlines what delegates can expect to get out of the forthcoming Building More Homes event – and why boosting the UK’s supply of affordable housing is more important than ever.

14/01/2013

Type:Blog

Measuring rents in the private rental sector

After new recommendations for measuring private rental prices were published earlier this week, CIH policy manager Sian Sankey explores the implications.

11/01/2013

Type:Blog

Right to buy: the ominous pitter patter of cold feet

David Bookbinder, head of policy and public affairs at CIH Scotland, considers whether or not the Scottish Government will go ahead with the abolition of right to buy, following its recent consultation on the matter.

08/01/2013

Type:Blog

'A safe, warm affordable home for all'

CIH president Robin Lawler considers the challenges facing housing in 2013 - and how CIH can help you tackle them.

02/01/2013

Type:Blog

Are you ready for April 2013?

Landlords are preparing for new changes this year and our latest publication for Scotland guides them to handle queries from tenants. Find out more...

01/01/2013

Type:Blog

Housing and the political landscape

After a year when our industry began to move up the political agenda, policy and practice offer Laura Shimili looks back on the activities of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Housing.

21/12/2012

Type:Blog

Reasons to be cheerful?

With Christmas just a few days away, CIH NI director Cecilia Keaveney scours the Irish government's Budget for some festive cheer.

20/12/2012

Type:Blog

Welfare reform - denial still the comfortable option for some

David Bookbinder reflects on CIH Scotland's latest policy briefing - bedroom tax guidance for social landlords - and how some organisations are still portraying the issue as simple and straightforward. Read his latest blog for more details.

20/12/2012

Type:Blog

Speakers hub: Complaints - preparing for change

In the latest speakers hub interview, policy and practice officer David Pipe shares his views on the forthcoming 'Complaints - preparing for change' event, and discusses the introduction of the designated person.

18/12/2012

Type:Blog

Will the reforms for local government really ‘put people first’?

The Irish government recently published ‘Putting people first : an action programme for effective local government’, outlining the most fundamental reform of the local government system in over one hundred years.

18/12/2012

Type:Blog

Facing the Future: A cause for optimism?

As the lastest consultation on Northern Ireland's new housing strategy comes to an, CIH NI director Cecilia Keaveney shares her thoughts.

14/12/2012

Type:Blog

Getting ready for welfare reform: A practical guide

Welfare reform is the single biggest challenge facing housing organisations in the future – which is why we have produced a comprehensive practical guide to help organisations prepare for the changes ahead, protect their businesses and support their customers. CIH policy and practice officer Laura Shimili explains.

14/12/2012

Type:Blog

Understanding the ‘designated person’

In April 2013 one of the less well-known provisions in the Localism Act will take effect. It will affect the way that unresolved complaints about social landlords are handled and the way in which they are escalated to the Ombudsman.

13/12/2012

Type:Blog

Five key elements of a great complaints service

Handling complaints effectively is vital for any housing provider, which is why CIH has developed a new charter on the subject. Policy and practice officer David Pipe explains.

11/12/2012

Type:Blog

What can we learn from the UK housing awards?

As the year draws to a close, policy and practice officer David Pipe looks back at the winners of the UK Housing Awards 2012 – and what everyone in the industry can learn from them.

10/12/2012

Type:Blog

The new online home for i2i

As part of the launch of i2i’s brand new online home Rachel Honey-Jones, i2i co-ordinator, takes a look at the main features of the new website.

07/12/2012

Type:Blog

A reminder of how far housing has come

CIH President Robin Lawler gives you an update on his activities over the past few weeks, including his role in two key events: the Northern Housing Summit and the Commemoration Day for Octavia Hill, which served as a reminder of how far housing has come.

07/12/2012

Type:Blog

Unravelling the autumn statement

Director of policy and practice Gavin Smart unpicks the details of the autumn statement from a housing perspective.

06/12/2012

Type:Blog

Are welfare reform 'concessions' a red herring for Wales?

Recent announcements in Northern Ireland have generated much interest in Wales as to whether there is a new opportunity to lobby for Welfare Reform concessions. Julie Nicholas, policy and public affairs manager at CIH Cymru, asks is this the right approach at a time when resources are scare and immense change is looming?

05/12/2012

Type:Blog

10 things to do in December

Find out how you can get involved, make the most of your membership and connect with CIH with our top ten things to do in December.

05/12/2012

Type:Blog

CIH Northern Ireland secure new sponsors for housing awards

CIH NI is pleased to announce new sponsorship support from multiple organisations this week for the CIH NI Housing Awards 2013.

04/12/2012

Type:Blog

Get involved - help make CIH a better and stronger organisation

In an article first published in Conversations Inspired by Housing magazine, President elect for 2013, Paul Tennant, gives his advice to members considering standing for the post of Vice President next year.

04/12/2012

Type:Blog

Getting to know…Cecilia Keaveney

Welcome to the new director of CIH Northern Ireland, Cecilia Keaveney. Read an interview with Cecilia as she shares her passion for education, music and life and explains what and who made her the person she is today.

03/12/2012

Type:Blog

An uphill struggle - is housing the answer?

Ahead of Wednesday’s autumn statement, when Chancellor George Osborne is due to unveil the government’s latest economic plans, Gavin Smart, director of policy and practice, shares his thoughts.

03/12/2012

Type:Blog

Celebrating excellence in housing

Chief Executive Grainia Long outlines why the UK Housing Awards are more important than ever in a time of change - and how they can help you to improve your services, learn from innovations across the sector, and help us to drive up standards in housing.

30/11/2012

Type:Blog

Happy Birthday? The Localism Act and housing one year on

After the Localism Act reached its first anniversary last month, our director of policy and practice, Gavin Smart, explores its impact on the housing sector in a blog first published by think – tank ResPublica.

30/11/2012

Type:Blog

My day with the Minister

Winner of the Northern Ireland Rising Star Award 2012, Heather Wilson, shares her experience of shadowing the Minister for Social Development, Nelson McCausland. She outlines what she learnt about the impact of social housing, and the work of the Department for Social Development, in particular in the areas of regeneration, planning and development, and reducing fuel poverty.

28/11/2012

Type:Blog

A home is for life - not just for Christmas

In his latest blog, CIH President Robin Lawler discusses the concept of 'home' as a safe, warm and affordable place to live - an idea that needs to be remembered all year round, and not just during the festive season.

28/11/2012

Type:Blog

Housing and health: the best of times and the worst of times

Director of health and wellbeing, Domini Gunn, leads CIH’s work on supporting local authorities and housing organisations to identify, address and meet the needs of vulnerable people and communities in their local area. In this short interview, she outlines how the housing and health care sectors can work together - and tells us why you should attend the 'Supported housing: actionable solutions for challenges and funding cuts' events next month.

27/11/2012

Type:Blog

CIH trainee scheme changes lives

Eileen Barron, neighbourhood officer for Aster Communities tells us about her experiences of CIH's Positive Action for Disability trainee scheme - a programme that enables disabled people to gain the experience and qualifications needed to start a trailblazing career in housing.

26/11/2012

Type:Blog

Are we returning to policy making on political whim?

In a blog first published in Inside Housing, Chief Executive Grainia Long comments on announcements made during David Cameron's speech on Monday 19 November, arguing that the prime minister’s drive to reduce red tape could undermine informed policy making. Is bureacracy in the planning system holding up growth? If there are no mechanisms in place to assess policy impact, will already disadavantaged groups lose out?

22/11/2012

Type:Blog

The countdown is over - new PCCs elected

Following last week's elections for the new Police and Crime Commissioners in England and Wales, ASB advisor Chris Grose looks at how housing providers can work collaboratively to tackle anti-social behaviour in their communities. The countdown to the new Police and Crime Commissioners is over and we now know who it will be that will take this initiative forward.

20/11/2012

Type:Blog

Autumn presidential update

President, Robin Lawler, tells us about his work during the last half of 2012 and outlines the latest updates from CIH in his blog, including highlights from the first CIH seminar on social media in the housing sector, the appointment of Cecilia Keaveney as our new director in Northern Ireland and details of how Robin has been making links with members across the UK.

19/11/2012

Type:Blog

Chartered membership explained

As we start to invite members to renew for 2013 let’s take a look at what it means to be a chartered member including the routes, the benefits and opinions from people in the sector.

14/11/2012

Type:Blog

Is interculturalism the answer to growing diversity?

Policy advisor John Perry discusses a new book from Ted Cantle, 'Interculturalism – The New Era of Cohesion and Diversity'

07/11/2012

Type:Blog

Good news! Hospital 2 Home pack - What can you do?

CIH Director of Health and Wellbeing, Domini Gunn, introduces the new Hospital 2 Home pack and explains how housing organisations can use it to make their tenants' return home from hospital easier.

05/11/2012

Type:Blog

Preparing for the police and crime commissioners

Find out all about the new police and crime commissioners, what landlords should care about and how you can prepare in the latest blog from Chris Grose, ASB advisor.

02/11/2012

Type:Blog

Solar power is still viable for social landlords

In his latest blog, policy advisor, John Perry, talks about the government’s three-fold incentive scheme and how landlords can help tenants reduce their fuel bills.

29/10/2012

Type:Blog

The true legacy of the Paralympics

It’s been nearly two months since the end of the Paralympic games and Graham Findlay, Positive Action for Disability (PAfD) manager, reflects on whether the high profile of the sports and the athletes involved has made a difference to inclusion of disabled people.

26/10/2012

Type:Blog

Housing and the jobless: What we can do for you

Director of Wales, Keith Edwards, reflects on the Guardian’s recent report about out of work and disengaged young people and the state of the sector in his latest blog.

25/10/2012

Type:Blog

Poor housing - a gift to human traffickers?

Chief Executive Grainia Long discusses statistics published last week on human trafficking, and how the housing sector can help to tackle the problem.

24/10/2012

Type:Blog

The benefits of e-learning

Head of learning, Kathy Hanson, reflects on the benefits of e-learning during the final day of the Get Online Week campaign.

19/10/2012

Type:Blog

Distance learning survey

We're reviewing our learning offer and would like you're to hear your thoughts about distance learning. Find out more and fill in the short survey.

19/10/2012

Type:Blog

How IT can improve efficiency in housing organisations

Pete Brown, head of IT at PCMS Group, tells us why he is encouraging the housing sector to embrace the opportunities to improve efficiency in and out of the workplace with technology.

18/10/2012

Type:Blog

A housing strategy for Northern Ireland

Jennifer Donald, head of policy and public affairs, takes an initial look at the new housing strategy for Northern Ireland.

18/10/2012

Type:Blog

Eradicating fuel poverty: Building wellbeing

The government is currently consulting on a redefinition of fuel poverty but why does this matter and why should the housing sector get engaged with this? Find out more with the latest blog from Sarah Davis, senior policy and practice officer.

17/10/2012

Type:Blog

Every member matters - make your vote count!

CIH members are being invited to take part in a ballot to agree the rate of annual subscriptions for 2013. Find out why your vote is important and how you can have a say in the future of your membership.

17/10/2012

Type:Blog

Get online week: five ways the housing sector can improve with the internet

We’re marking the sixth national Get Online Week campaign organised by Online Centres Foundation (OCF). Here are just five easy ways organisations in the housing sector can improve with the internet.

15/10/2012

Type:Blog

Stock rationalisation and social housing landlords

Guest blogger, Shaun Aldis, director of property services at Wolverhampton Homes, will be at our flagship asset management conference Homes 2012. He gives us an insight into one of the topics he’ll be debating – the ethics of selling property and displacing people to raise money to fund future developments.

15/10/2012

Type:Blog

How to develop disability confidence in your organisation

Disabled people are often resiliant, talented and creative. Find out how our Positive Action for Disability (PAfD) services can help you see disability differently and develop confidence in your workplace.

11/10/2012

Type:Blog

Housing had a high profile at the Labour Party Conference

Director of Policy, Gavin Smart, gives us his round-up following last week’s Labour party conference.

08/10/2012

Type:Blog

Your home and your health

Director of health and wellbeing, Domini Gunn, tells us how social housing providers can have an impact on the health and wellbeing of the people in their community in her latest blog.

08/10/2012

Type:Blog

Distance learning: A member's view

Chartered member, Christine Ashton has been with the institute for more than 20 years. Find out why she champions distance learning and how it has helped her progress from being a housing officer to managing director.

05/10/2012

Type:Blog

Housing in the new health and social care landscape

With radical changes to the health and social care landscape on the horizon for April 2013, it is now more important than ever for housing organisations to demonstrate how they can contribute to the health and wellbeing of communities. Find out more in our latest housing and health blog.

04/10/2012

Type:Blog

Housing, learning and policy: A member’s view

Jill Haley is chief officer of the Byker Community Trust in Newcastle and has been a CIH member for 20 years and is the vice chair of our North East region. We caught up with Jill to find out what she thinks about the state of the industry, whether learning is important for housing professionals and what she would change about current policies.

03/10/2012

Type:Blog

Housing and the green deal

This week the government launched its green deal and John Perry, policy advisor, talks about what their 2050 targets look like for the housing industry in his latest blog.

02/10/2012

Type:Blog

Welfare reform impact tool: from planning to implementation

Consultancy director, Karen Doran, has been working with housing organisations to help them measure the impact of welfare reform. Find out how our welfare reform impact tool has been helping others and why we’ve introduced the new personal calculator app.

02/10/2012

Type:Blog

The presidential appeal charity update

CIH president, Robin Lawler, has already raised more than £16,000 for the Foyer Federation this year and Joel Attar, development and delivery officer, for the young people’s charity tells us about their work in a guest blog.

28/09/2012

Type:Blog

How to use the welfare reform impact tool

Kelly Brewer from KLB Complete has helped us develop the new online and app based welfare reform impact tool. Read her blog to find out all about the development and how you can use the tool.

27/09/2012

Type:Blog

Getting to know David Thomas

Deputy Director for Green Deal Demand at the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), David Thomas, will be speaking at Homes 2012 and we caught up with him to find out more about his role.

26/09/2012

Type:Blog

What is the welfare reform impact tool?

Find out about our new online and app based welfare reform impact tool and watch our demo video.

25/09/2012

Type:Blog

Homes for Britain

Find out how we're backing a campaign to help put housing at the top of the political agenda during the party conference season.

25/09/2012

Type:Blog

Housing in the 80s

In September’s issue of Conversations Inspired by Housing magazine, published last week, we took another look back to see what the hot topics were in May 1987 edition of the magazine.

25/09/2012

Type:Blog

Social and affordable housing: Issue of rents and rent setting

Rent setting and social and affordable housing has been a hot topic in our policy team. Abigail Davies, assistant director of policy and practice, tells us why in her latest blog.

21/09/2012

Type:Blog

Government guarantees - further details

Chief executive, Grainia Long, discusses the latest update about the government’s guarantees in her latest blog.

20/09/2012

Type:Blog

MPs invited to support housing and growth

The housing All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) is leading on a campaign for a backbenchers debate on housing and growth. Sian Sankey, policy manager, talks about the plea and how you can help raise awareness in your local area in her latest blog.

19/09/2012

Type:Blog

Housing qualifications do provide the skills and attitude employers are looking for

Rebecca Mollart, training and academic consultant, has helped dozens of students gain CIH qualifications. In her guest blog, Rebecca tells us why housing qualifications are worth investing in.

17/09/2012

Type:Blog

The answer is invaluable. Now what is the question?

Director of Northern Ireland Jim Dennison reminds us about the importance of a place to call home.

14/09/2012

Type:Blog

Frequently asked questions about tenancy reform: Part two

In part two, policy and practice officer David Pipe brings you more answers to help you understand tenancy reform.

12/09/2012

Type:Blog

CIH welcomes new Housing Minister Mark Prisk

It's a new term and time for a fresh start for some. Keep up-to-date with the latest news about the Prime Minister's cabinet reshuffle and how the housing industry might be affected.

04/09/2012

Type:Blog

Changing the way we think about disability

Policy officer John Thornhill reflects on how the Paralympics can inspire and empower people across the UK to challenge negative attitudes to disability.

31/08/2012

Type:Blog

Housing is in the news for all the wrong reasons

It might be the end of the summer holidays but it has been a busy season for housing in the news. CIH president, Robin Lawler, looks at why housing has been in the news for all the wrong reasons and how we are tackling the crisis.

30/08/2012

Type:Blog

Frequently asked questions about tenancy reform

Policy and practice officer, David Pipe, gives you the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about tenancy reform.

29/08/2012

Type:Blog

How to get the best out of your employees with our four day managers’ programme

It’s a tough job being a line manager, says Sarah Smith, director of Indigo Leadership who runs our four day managers’ programme. She tells us how employers can get the best out of their staff.

29/08/2012

Type:Blog

Sort by:Date (Descending) | Date (Ascending) | Title

Webinar video: practical approaches to welfare reform

If you missed our second member exclusive webinar with making best use of stock expert, Melanie Rees, then here's your chance to watch the video.

16/05/2013
 M

Type:Feature

CIH events debrief papers

Below are debrief papers from our most recent events for you to download.

15/05/2013
 M

Type:Feature

Rising Star Peter Bond: Campaign update

Peter Bond, one of this year's Rising Stars finalists, outlines how he has found the competition so far and what's in store for the weeks ahead.

13/05/2013

Type:Feature

Another opportunity for social housing providers: The changing school environment

Sarah Morton, one of the three finalists in Rising Stars 2013, explores how the changing school environment could be an opportunity for the housing industry to engage with children and young people.

13/05/2013

Type:Feature

A Rising Star’s top tips for communicating effectively with young people

People say that teenagers make the toughest audiences. Catherine Attenborough, one of this year’s Rising Stars finalists, shares what she’s learned about communicating effectively with this age group during the competition.

13/05/2013

Type:Feature

Message to all CIH members

This statement was made at the CIH AGM by Turlogh O’Brien, chair of the Governing Board, on 1 May 2013.

01/05/2013
 M

Type:Feature

Webinar video: understanding the latest changes to housing and council tax benefit

If you missed our first member exclusive webinar with welfare reform expert Sam Lister then here's your chance to watch the video.

30/04/2013
 M

Type:Feature

Eastern Outlook: Learning in our region

The end is in sight for the first group of students on Anglia Ruskin University’s new Foundation Degree Management of Social and Affordable Housing.

30/04/2013

Type:Feature

Eastern Outlook: MoneyWise, HomeSafe

A four-year project supporting first-time social housing tenants has started accepting referrals this month (April).

30/04/2013

Type:Feature

Eastern Outlook: First birthday for scrutiny panel

Welwyn Hatfield Residents' Scrutiny Panel marked its first anniversary by holding a reception at Campus West Welwyn Garden City.

30/04/2013

Type:Feature

Eastern Outlook: Governance update

As we've reported over the past year or so, there have been many changes to CIH's governance affecting both the National Council (now called the Governing Board) and the Regional Committees (now called Regional Boards as of 1 January 2013).

29/04/2013

Type:Feature

Changes to Audit and Risk Board

The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) has today received and accepted resignations from six members of the Audit and Risk Board, including the Chairman.

29/04/2013

Type:Feature

Webinar: practical responses to welfare reform

Find out more about the member exclusive webinar with Making Best Use of Stock expert Melanie Rees.

26/04/2013
 M

Type:Feature

South West conference highlights

Hundreds of housing professionals have been enjoying the sunshine in Torquay whilst taking part in some great debates at the annual South West conference and exhibition.

26/04/2013

Type:Feature

Preview: South West conference

This week’s three-day event at Torquay’s Palace Hotel will see a superb line-up of keynote speakers take to the stage to facilitate some great discussions and debates about housing in the South West.

22/04/2013

Type:Feature

Webinar: understanding the latest changes to housing and council tax benefit

Find out more about the member exclusive webinar with welfare reform expert Sam Lister.

19/04/2013
 M

Type:Feature

Annual membership survey

This month we're inviting members from across the UK to tell us their views about their membership and professional development. Entries can win their 2014 membership subscription in a prize draw.

18/04/2013
 M

Type:Feature

Steve Partridge to leave CIH

Steve Partridge, director of financial policy and development at the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), has decided to leave the organisation to pursue a new venture.

18/04/2013

Type:Feature

Yarlington team wins CIH SW Award for second year running

Yarlington Housing Group has won the annual Chartered Institute of Housing South West (CIH SW) award for the most improved housing service in the region for the second year running.

18/04/2013

Type:Feature

CIH chief executive scores high in housing power players list

CIH chief executive Grainia Long is at number two in this year's 24 Housing Power Players Top 50 - a run down of the most influential and inspirational figures in housing.

11/04/2013

Type:Feature

Rising Stars: the finalists - Peter Bond

Peter Bond from Cosmopolitan Housing Group is one of the three finalists in CIH and Inside Housing's Rising Stars 2013 competition. He impressed the judges with his ideas for creating young ambassadors for the industry and his brand concept: "A career in housing - make a difference". Will he get your vote?

05/04/2013

Type:Feature

Rising Stars: the finalists - Catherine Attenborough

Catherine Attenborough from Catalyst Housing Limited is one of the three finalists in CIH and Inside Housing's Rising Stars 2013 competition. Her idea for a #HashtagHousing campaign impressed the judges - but will she get your vote?

05/04/2013

Type:Feature

Rising Stars: the finalists - Sarah Morton

Sarah Morton from the Centre for Partnership (GEM programme) at SYHA is one of the three finalists in CIH and Inside Housing's Rising Stars 2013 competition. Her idea to engage school leavers with a CIH careers website impressed the judges - but will she get your vote?

05/04/2013

Type:Feature

Mount Kilimanjaro trek for housing charities

Former CIH President, Janet Hale, has recently completed an all-female expedition to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro to raise thousands of pounds for two housing projects. Read her story below.

04/04/2013

Type:Feature

Budget 2013 preview

A look ahead to Wednesday's Budget, what the housing industry is hoping for - and what we can expect. As ever, the content of this year's Budget has been the subject of much speculation - and many prominent voices from outside the industry as well as CIH are calling on Chancellor George Osborne to invest in housing as a means of boosting the fragile economy.

18/03/2013

Type:Feature

Scotland Conference: Day three

The final day of CIH Scotland's Annual Conference and Exhibition 2013 opened with an address from Chief Executive Grainia Long and a keynote session on ending the recession. Other highlights included an interview with Professor Duncan Maclennan from St Andrew's University, and sub-plenaries on welfare reform, the green deal, and vulnerable communities.

15/03/2013

Type:Feature

Tai: day two highlights

Day two at the annual Welsh conference focussed on empty homes and communities. Read more and see the photos from Tai below.

14/03/2013

Type:Feature

Scotland Conference: Day two

Day two of CIH Scotland's Annual Conference and Exhibition 2013 featured a debate on the implications of greater powers for Scotland, an interview with Chair of the Scottish Housing Regulator, Kay Blair, and a session focusing on how we can make affordable housing for all a priority.

13/03/2013

Type:Feature

CIH Scotland AGM 2013

The CIH Scotland 2013 annual general meeting took place at the SECC, Glasgow, as part of the CIH Scotland annual conference and exhibition on 13 March 2013.

13/03/2013
 M

Type:Feature

Scotland Conference: Day one

The bedroom tax, universal credit, housing and health and the future of public services were all hot topics on day one of CIH Scotland’s annual conference and exhibition - the biggest housing event in Scotland - which is taking place at the SECC in Glasgow this week.

13/03/2013

Type:Feature

Tai: day one highlights

Hundreds of delegates joined CIH at the City Hall in Cardiff for the start of Tai 2013. The annual Welsh conference is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Here are just some of the best bits from day one.

12/03/2013

Type:Feature

Preview: Tai 2013

This week we’re celebrating the 25th anniversary of the annual conference and exhibition in Cymru with Tai 2013. Find out what you can expect at the three day event with the sneak preview below.

11/03/2013

Type:Feature

Preview: CIH Scotland Conference and Exhibition

CIH Scotland’s annual conference and exhibition, which takes place this week at the SECC in Glasgow is the biggest housing event in Scotland.

11/03/2013

Type:Feature

CIH South East Conference: All the highlights

Welfare reform, anti-social behaviour, homelessness and getting Britain building again were just some of the topics that were top of the agenda at CIH’s South East Conference and Exhibition, which took place in Brighton this week.

04/03/2013

Type:Feature

NI Housing Professionals Shine at the CIH Housing Awards

The CIH Northern Ireland 4th Annual Housing Awards took place on Thursday 28 February, showcasing housing’s ‘best of the best’ over the last year. The evening was hosted by BBC’s Tara Mills and Inside Housing’s Editor Stuart MacDonald at Belfast’s City Hall.

04/03/2013

Type:Feature

Dates for your diary in 2013

Get your calendars at the ready as we look forward to some of the events of the year ahead. Network with colleagues, join the debates and help us boost the profile of housing across the UK at the top conferences and award nights to come.

15/02/2013

Type:Feature

Review - CIH Presidential Dinner

More than 500 people joined us for the annual Presidential Dinner at the Natural History Museum last night. The stunning backdrop to the black tie event combined with the speeches made it a fantastic night of networking, debates and celebrations.

07/02/2013

Type:Feature

Anti-social behaviour: what could the new draft bill mean for you?

New legislation unveiled in December aims to help landlords tackle anti-social behaviour more effectively. In this feature from Conversations Inspired by Housing magazine, find out how the bill could affect you.

07/02/2013

Type:Feature

Preview - CIH Presidential Dinner

Everyone at CIH is looking forward to our annual Presidential Dinner, which takes place tonight at the Natural History Museum in London. We'll be hearing from incoming President Paul Tennant and Mayor of London Boris Johnson, who'll be outlining his vision to solve the capital's housing crisis.

06/02/2013

Type:Feature

Autumn statement: what it means for housing

Find out all about the autumn statement, what it means for the sector and what we expect to see in our Conversations Inspired by Housing magazine feature.

28/11/2012

Type:Feature

In-house qualifications are a huge success!

Our Level 2 Certificate in Housing Practice is the one of the most popular qualifications we run. In 2011, we started to deliver our qualifications in-house, enabling housing organisations to train several employees at the same time, at a date and location convenient to them.

06/08/2012

Type:Feature

Three great topics, three amazing offers!

Linking in with our year of practice we have created some exciting offers to make it even easier to improve with us. With special offers on our great range of events around ASB, welfare reform and allocations, make sure you and your organisation don't miss out!

12/07/2012

Type:Feature

A distance learning student's story

Elsa Ward has been working in homelessness services for more than 16 years and we wanted to find out how her CIH distance learning studies has helped her career.

05/07/2012

Type:Feature

Right to buy agreement deadline approaching

In March the government announced a reinvigorated policy on right-to-buy and one-for-one replacement. Agreements have now been sent to councils, and the deadline to sign is fast approaching.

21/06/2012

Type:Feature

Depooling – what are the challenges?

CIH consultant, David Smethurst, has worked as a frontline practitioner in housing for 20 years. In an attempt to uncover the confusion around depooling, David provides us with an insight into what depooling is, how it can create problems and why it’s important.

26/03/2012

Type:Feature

Don't miss your chance to vote for CIH Vice President

The closing date for the receipt of ballot papers is Monday 30 January at 6pm

26/01/2012

Type:Feature

Financing the future

Neil Merrick investigates approaches to funding new social and affordable housing around the UK and finds significant differences

25/01/2012

Type:Feature

Vice President candidates question and answer session

On 18 January 2012, CIH hosted a question and answer session with the Vice President candidates to help members decide how to vote.

20/01/2012

Type:Feature

The Housing Strategy - In-depth comment

In-depth coverage and comment from Abigail Davies, Steve Partridge, Domini Gunn and Karen Doran on the government's Housing Strategy for England.

23/11/2011

Type:Feature

Latest learners from Gypsy and Traveller course graduate

A CIH course helps achieve positive outcomes for Gypsies and Travellers.

16/11/2011

Type:Feature

The future for tenant scrutiny

John Thornhill examines the latest developments in tenant scrutiny and how housing organisations can make it a success.

14/11/2011

Type:Feature

New qualification will help tenants live more sustainably

CIH has developed a new qualification to help residents reduce their carbon footprint.

09/11/2011

Type:Feature

Housing organisations are opening up to disabled professionals

A scheme from CIH is helping disabled people to work in housing.

07/11/2011

Type:Feature

Welfare reform

What will the Welfare Reform Bill mean for tenants and housing organisations.

26/10/2011

Type:Feature

Making a positive difference

Housing and Disability Equality - A New Approach. This article first appeared in the January 2010 issue of 'Housing' the magazine for CIH members.

05/02/2010

Type:Feature

Share with us

Blog Facebook Twitter Flickr

 

Contact us

Do you want to know more about what we do, or have a question?

customer.services@cih.org
024 7685 1700

 

Spokespeople

We have lots of experts who love to talk about housing.  If you would like us to comment, please give us a call

Grainia Long
Chief Executive