CIH launches new ‘top-up’ learning units to help social housing managers comply with new qualification rules

The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) has launched ‘top up’ learning units to help housing professionals prepare for new qualification requirements.

The Labour government confirmed last year it intends to take forward plans announced under the previous Conservative administration to require social housing managers and executives to hold qualifications.

Ministers are expected to publish more details soon, but a consultation paper under the previous government last year suggested the requirement should be a level four or five certificate or diploma in housing.

Concerns have been raised in the sector from housing managers who have significant skills and experience but have never completed a formal qualification. The ‘top-up’ units are intended to help people fill gaps and meet the new requirements without having to do a whole new housing qualification.

The level 4 top up units include housing law and regulation, housing policy, customer focus, professionalism, resident involvement and law, policy and regulation relating to repairs and maintance. The level 5 units include ethical practice, leadership and management, strategic and business planning, housing in context, managing partner relationships and customer-focused housing services and communication.

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Gavin Smart, chief executive of CIH, said: “I’m delighted that the CIH Awarding Organisation is launching these new top-up units, which give experienced professionals the opportunity to build on their existing qualifications and prepare for the forthcoming mandatory qualification requirement.

“CIH is committed to playing a leading role in supporting both individuals and the wider housing sector as they get ready to meet the new expectations under the Competence and Conduct Standard.”