Creating opportunities with my CIH membership

At the start of my career in 2020 I was encouraged to become a CIH member. As CIH had a concession rate for under 30s, I saw it as a real positive that CIH valued its younger members and encouraged people of that age demographic. I also saw it as further encouragement to work and become involved in networks within the sector. I keep renewing my membership as it allows me to know what’s happening and take advice from experienced professionals. 

Opening doors

None of my family worked in the housing sector, and I had very little experience of working in the sector at that time. When I got my membership, I quickly signed up for the mentoring scheme. I’m very grateful to Margaret Torrance, director of Paragon Housing Association, for encouraging me to join CIH and sign up for the mentoring scheme to gain advice and support. 

My current mentor, Brett Sadler, has been a huge source of advice over the last two and half years. He encouraged me to apply to go onto a board of an RSL, to gain further experience, and to become involved in the Futures group. Both experiences have been very beneficial in my personal and professional development. 

Working with CIH Futures

My current role is the chair of the CIH Futures Scotland group. Julie Steele, CIH’s Futures lead contact, and I were keen to set up the group to give a voice to young housing professionals in Scotland – other groups were well established, so now it was Scotland’s turn. 

We have established a group with 12 members coming from a variety of organisations and backgrounds. Our aim is to organise events in Scotland in partnership with CIH, such as the Big Conversation and Scottish Housing Festival. These events will also give the group the chance to represent young professional’s views among the wider sector, and to provide insight which can lead to meaningful change. 

Keeping up with my renewal

I have remained a member of CIH because I believe in the really good work CIH does and the contribution it can make to the sector. The training available to members is first class, as well as the opportunity to connect and learn from like-minded professionals. I wouldn’t have had some of the opportunities and experiences I’ve had, if I hadn’t been a member. 

If I meet someone who’s not a CIH member, I tell them to join! The possibilities for training, networking and learning are endless. You can tailor your membership experience to your own preferences and learning needs. As a young professional, I found great encouragement and sources of advice through being a member and continuing my membership. CIH is a great organisation to be a part of and I look forward to continuing to be involved in the future.