CIH president and housing leaders make a leap for CHOOSE HOUSING campaign

On Friday 13 June Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) president, Elly Hoult, and a team of 25 well known housing faces abseiled down a 9-storey building in south west London, as part of a bold fund and awareness raising initiative for Elly’s CHOOSE HOUSING campaign.

An exclusion zone was put in place at Burridge Gardens (formerly St John’s Hill) in Wandsworth to allow the unveiling of a CHOOSE HOUSING wrapped black cab, before the 25 brave housing professionals began their decent down Peabody’s 9-storey building.

The event included a breakfast before the abseil and lunch after, sponsored by Wates, Mount-Anvil, and Cab-E Media, to celebrate the accomplishments of the abseilers and their collective fundraising efforts to support Elly’s chosen presidential charity, Barnardo’s. Barnardo’s support young people in getting their foot on the career ladder, a charity closely linked to Elly’s CHOOSE HOUSING presidential campaign, focussed on raising awareness of the career opportunities the housing sector provides. Since beginning her presidency in October 2024 Elly has raised over £25,000 for Barnardo’s.

CIH President Elly Hoult inside a wrapped cab for Barnardo's charity abseil

Speaking at the event Elly Hoult said:

“To the sponsors, abseilers and everyone who has donated to Barnardo’s I want to say a heart felt thank you. Barnardo’s do incredible work in supporting children and young people build confidence and providing career guidance and I know these funds will make a real difference.

“In social housing we don’t just build homes – we build communities, create careers and impact lives every day. To complete this fundraising activity, with so much support, in the heart of one of Peabody’s communities highlights what an incredible sector housing is. I’m so proud to work in housing, and delighted to continually have such a positive response to the CHOOSE HOUSING campaign, which encourages the next generation to do the same.”

Rachael Williamson, director of policy, communication and public affairs at CIH and a fellow abseiler added:

“You don’t have to jump off a building to encourage people to CHOOSE HOUSING! As part of Elly’s campaign CIH have created a toolkit of resources you can access to promote housing as a career of choice and provide guidance to those considering what route to take in housing. I encourage everyone to check out Elly’s fantastic campaign and show their support.”

Gary Wilkinson, regional managing director at Wates, one of the event sponsors concluded by saying:

“We’re delighted to be part of this event and support this important cause. It’s a great example of how the housing industry can come together and create positive change for not just residents and communities but wider society – a big thank you to all involved.”