CIH launches new Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications for the homeless sector 

CIH has launched two new qualifications for the homelessness sector in collaboration with Homeless Link, the national membership charity for organisations working directly with people who become homeless in England. 

The new qualifications include a Level 3 certificate in Rough Sleeping Outreach Services and a Level 4 certificate in Homelessness Service Management.  

The Level 3 qualification is designed for professionals working with people who are rough sleeping and sits alongside CIH’s existing Level 3 Certificate in Providing Homelessness Services. 

The new Level 4 qualification has been developed for those aspiring to progress into leadership or management positions within homelessness services, or to help those already in those positions to develop in their role. The content also aligns with the competence and conduct standard content requirements for senior manager level 4 qualifications.

Commenting on the expanded qualification offer, Sarah Dunkerley, CIH’s director of membership and professional development, said: “I’m delighted CIH has been able to develop these qualifications, dedicated to homelessness services, an essential element of our housing system. 

“The new qualifications add to CIH’s existing and comprehensive range of qualifications enhancing our offering in the homelessness sector, which alongside our membership services, knowledge resources and training provide the tools needed to help individuals demonstrate their commitment to excellence and professional development.”

Kate Alaway, head of national workforce development at Homeless Link, said: “We’re really pleased to co-develop these new qualifications with CIH, responding directly to what our members told us they needed.  

“Staff working in homelessness, whether on the streets or managing services, do skilled, complex work that often goes unrecognised. These qualifications help change that.

"They set clear professional standards, recognise the expertise staff bring, and offer opportunities to learn and progress. We know they’ll build confidence, improve the consistency of support, and help organisations keep and develop great people.  

“With over 20 years’ experience delivering training, and by working closely with our members and people with lived experience, we’ve made sure these courses are practical, up-to-date, and rooted in the reality of supporting people experiencing homelessness.”

Both qualifications are regulated by Ofqual and Qualifications Wales and are designed to help learners develop the skills and knowledge required to operate effectively in their roles.   

More information including the qualification outlines, entry requirements, and details on becoming a study centre is available on CIH’s website.