Sitting down with... Annalisa Howson 

Former South East and London regional lead Annalisa Howson looks back at her involvement with CIH, which culminated in her time leading the South East and London regional group. 

How did you first become involved with the CIH South East and London regional group? 

I joined the South East Group in 2018. After the Grenfell Tower tragedy, I felt a call to promote and support the professionalism of our sector. I started volunteering with CIH as an end-point assessor and was appointed to the group following a meeting with the then chair at CIH Brighton. 

How has the regional group evolved since you first joined? 

The two biggest changes have been the use of technology and merger of the South East and London groups. 

I joined the group before COVID, when we had in person meetings and seminars. During the pandemic, the group embraced online sessions, which has given greater flexibility for us as members and our initiatives. 

Bringing the committed members of the SE and London groups together reduced duplication and focussed our priorities. The group’s aims are to promote professionalism, raise awareness of career opportunities in social housing and to support our peers in joining and making the most of CIH membership for continuous development. 

When you reflect on your time as lead of the South East and London regional group, what are you most proud of? What stands out the most?

Where do I start? I’ve had so many opportunities that have developed me professionally and as a person. Giving feedback to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Regulator of Social Housing on legislation and regulation, chairing sessions at CIH Brighton, hosting career development events and fundraising by taking a couple of big leaps of faith — parachuting in 2022 and abseiling in 2025! 

I’m proud of group’s commitment and the progress we’ve made with connecting people and promoting opportunities. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me and the group during my tenure. 

How has your involvement with CIH, including the South East and London regional group, supported your professional development and career progression? 

My active membership has enabled me to horizon scan, to share and prepare for the future by having access to up to date sector changes, challenges and context. I also took the opportunity to have and become a mentor. Experiencing both sides of the mentor process gave me a new outlook and confidence to take the next career steps. 

What has being part of the wider CIH community meant to you professionally and personally? 

Housing people are people who really care. The housing community has given me amazing support and encouragement to have the confidence to do things completely out of my comfort zone. Everyone is willing to share their knowledge, experience and challenges and let you have a go!

Annalisa with the South East and London group at CIH Brighton 2026

Are there any particular opportunities, connections or experiences that you feel you wouldn’t have had without your involvement with CIH? 

I got involved with CIH when I wanted to do more professionally but didn’t want to take a career step that would impact my family’s work-life balance. Through CIH, I was able to grow professionally and meet some inspirational leaders. I never expected to chair a food poverty session with Alison Inman and Jack Munroe, lead a CIH Brighton session with Fiona MacGregor, learn to abseil with Elly Hoult, or meet Sir Kier Starmer (briefly) at a CIH presidential dinner.  

Why should CIH members get involved with their regional group? 

Get involved if you want to a broader view than your current role, expand your horizons, support and promote our profession and meet a great group of people!

Main image: Annalisa after completing a fundraising parachute in 2022