Launched yesterday, ‘Close to Home: Housing and Communities’ also outlines aims for the future and highlights the partnerships that are making a real impact.

Housing issues are high on the government’s agenda. From the southern counties of England to the Scottish Highlands, ‘Close to Home: Housing and Communities’ reports on the issues surrounding the ongoing housing crisis and hears from housing associations, local authorities and other organisations working together to meet housing needs including tackling homelessness, addressing the ageing population and helping to ensure affordability, quality and inclusivity to help build and maintain communities.

Presented by news presenter Natasha Kaplinsky OBE, the programme shines a light on what is going on behind closed doors, from domestic abuse to rogue landlords, as well as more positive stories highlighting the housing options that are being tailored to suit different budgets and the regeneration projects embracing an infrastructure-first, person-centred approach, helping to improve communities and residents’ lives.

‘Close to Home: Housing and Communities’ had its premiere at Housing 2019 in Manchester. The programme will form part of an extensive communications campaign featuring CIH’s members and professional partners, as well as journalists, writers, bloggers and relevant government departments.

Terrie Alafat CBE, CIH chief executive, said: “As a profession we are not just about providing housing. We are about giving life chances – education, employment and wellbeing – to individuals, each with their own needs and their own dreams. I’d like to thank ITN Productions and all the participants for showing what it means to be a housing professional and why they’re proud of what they do.”

Vicki Clubley, interim head of ITN Productions Industry News, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with CIH to produce a programme highlighting the many challenges in the housing industry today and to give recognition to the local councils and housing associations whose innovative approaches are making a real difference.”

The programme features industry interviews and news-style reports along with editorial profiles from leading organisations which showcase the vital work that housing professionals are doing to create a future in which everyone has a place to call home.

Those involved include Albyn Housing Society, Fife Council and Places for People.