CIH responds to new research on young professionals in housing

CIH welcomes this important research from CIH Futures, which shines a light on the experiences, aspirations, and challenges facing young professionals in our sector.

The Voices of the Future report reveals what we have long known: the next generation of housing professionals are deeply passionate about making a difference. Their commitment to social purpose, residents, and communities is inspiring – and it’s clear they want to build long-term careers in housing.

At the same time, the findings are a reminder of some of the work the sector needs to do to support them. Too many young professionals “fall into” housing by chance rather than choice, and once here, can face barriers around visibility, progression, leadership support and wellbeing.

As the professional body for housing, CIH is committed to working with employers, members, and partners to ensure that housing is a sector where every professional can thrive.

This is precisely why our Choose Housing campaign, launched by former CIH President Elly Hoult, exists – to raise awareness that housing is a career of choice, not chance, regardless of background. We want young people to see housing as a first choice, to recognise the rich range of roles, and to join us knowing a meaningful and rewarding career lies ahead.

At the same time, our Rooted in Resilience campaign, recently launched by new President Julie Haydon, is reinforcing the strength, growth mindset and wellbeing culture that housing professionals need to thrive in a changing world. The report’s findings around burnout, inconsistent support and management gaps highlight the urgency of this work.

Over the coming months, CIH will:

• Strengthen early-career engagement through CIH Futures and the ongoing Choose Housing campaign, increasing visibility of housing careers in schools, colleges and universities.
• Expand networking and mentoring opportunities, including online communities and peer-to-peer support for young professionals.
• Work with employers and members, as part of the Rooted in Resilience campaign, to help build a sector that values wellbeing, empowers talent and celebrates the passion that makes housing such a special profession.
• Continue to amplify the voices of young professionals, ensuring they help shape the sector’s future through our events, campaigns and policy work.