To apply to become a CIH fellow, you must be a current chartered member (CIHCM).

If you have any questions before applying, plase call us, email us, or use our enquiry form — we’ll be happy to guide you through the process. Get in touch here.

Assessment criteria

Assessment for fellowship is based on the following criteria. Your personal statement should clearly describe how you meet these criteria, supported by evidence and examples.

Contribution to the profession and community

You have actively supported and developed others in the profession and/or the community and can demonstrate the difference you’ve made.

  • Examples of how this might be demonstrated include:
  • Being recognised as an acknowledged authority in a technical area
  • Undertaking research that has advanced housing knowledge
  • Contributing to public or voluntary bodies that improve housing or communities
  • Helping to raise the skills and competence of housing professionals
  • Receiving a national or regional award for professional achievement
  • Serving on a government or judicial body in a relevant housing capacity
  • Achieving significant outcomes for disadvantaged groups
  • Delivering keynote speeches or chairing professional conferences
Leadership

You have shown leadership within your field — developing a vision, inspiring others, and advancing the housing sector.

Examples of how this might be demonstrated include:

  • Leading major projects or organisations that have improved housing outcomes
  • Holding a significant or influential role in a key project or initiative
  • Motivating and inspiring colleagues or peers to maximise performance
  • Leading work that has set the benchmark for good practice
  • Developing innovative practice within your field
  • Demonstrating integrity and professionalism in leadership
  • Holding a senior management position with strategic responsibility

Application checklist

Before starting your application, please prepare the following documents to upload:

1. Curriculum vitae (CV)

Your CV should be up to date and clearly outline your relevant experience.

Accepted formats: PDF or Word document (.doc/.docx).

2. Personal statement (max 1000 words)

Enter your statement directly into the text box provided in the application form.

Focus on your qualifications, experience, leadership, and motivations for applying.

3. Statements from two referees

Your application must be endorsed by two referees who can verify your professional experience and integrity.

  • Each referee statement should:
  • Explain how long they have known you and in what capacity

Outline their knowledge of your professional experience and contribution to the housing profession

Statements must be signed (either digitally using an e-signature tool or by hand, then scanned).

Accepted formats: PDF or scanned document

4. Evidence of 20 hours of CPD (continuing professional development) from the last 12 months

Your CPD evidence should clearly show:

  • The date(s) of each activity
  • The provider or organisation name
  • The number of hours completed

CPD should cover professional education or training, practice-based activities, and personal development.

Accepted formats: PDF or Word document (.doc/.docx)

After you apply

All applications will be acknowledged, and you’ll receive confirmation of review timelines.

Applications can be submitted at any time and will be considered at the next meeting of the CIH Fellowship Admissions Panel.

A non-refundable fee of £250 is payable at the time of application. Applications will not go before the panel until full payment has been received

Submit your application

Got questions about CIH membership? Get in touch with our friendly team!