The UK’s largest housing conference and exhibition is being transformed to maximise its influence on the next UK Government. The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) has re- focussed its annual three day event in Harrogate into a new summit-style format, which will offer the whole of the housing sector the opportunity to come together to deliver a united and powerful voice to government.

Delegates at this year’s event will be invited to lead on the creation of a Housing Pact – a statement of what the sector will deliver with the necessary support from Government. In contrast to previous years, the Minister for Housing has been invited to speak on the final day of conference and listen to the sector’s plans to drive forward the housing sector.

CIH Chief Executive Sarah Webb said: "CIH’s Annual Conference and Exhibition is the only event that brings together private landlords, developers and voluntary sectors, as well as housing associations, ALMOs, and local authorities, to debate sector wide issues. It’s in all of our interests to work together to remind Government that housing should remain a political priority over coming years.

"The new event format will help the sector to deliver a clear annual message to Government. We hope as many people as possible will join us at conference to help create a powerful and united voice both to Government and all those involved in improving housing and communities".

*ENDS*

News release issued on behalf of the CIH by Jill Dwyer, CIH Press Office, Octavia House, Westwood Way, Coventry CV4 8JP. Telephone: 02476 851780 or 07786 716961. Email: press@cih.org.

Notes to Editors:

- The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) is the professional body for people involved in housing and communities. We are a registered charity and not-for-profit organisation. We have a diverse and growing membership of over 22,000 – both in the public and private sectors – living and working in over 20 countries on five continents across the world. Our members work for local authorities, housing associations, Arms Length Management Organisations, Government bodies, educational establishments and the private sector. Many tenants and residents are also members. We exist to maximise the contribution that housing professionals make to the wellbeing of communities. Further information is available at: www.cih.org 

- CIH’s Annual Conference and Exhibition is being held in Harrogate on 22 – 24 June 2010. For further information please visit: http://www.cihhousing.com/