The professional standards were released to the sector in March this year and introduced seven characteristics, setting out the knowledge, skills and behaviour which underpin the great work that housing professionals do every day.

This extension to the professional standards is incredible and will help guide modern housing professionals on their career journey, providing individuals and organisations with the opportunity to identify strengths and areas for improvement whilst highlighting a clear path for further development. 

CIH members get access to a comprehensive version of the tool. The assessment takes a few minutes to complete and instantly provides users with a detailed progress report, alongside tailored resources specific to their learning requirements. Non-members can get a flavour of the tool too, with their report highlighting the many ways CIH can support them to further grow in their career through our member-exclusive events, training and other benefits.

With more than 100 years’ experience in learning and knowledge, CIH has continued to collaborate with hundreds of members, tenants and residents, housing organisations and other professional bodies to further develop the standards, creating a tool that can be used by everyone working in housing, whatever their role or specialism.

Sarah Dunkerley, CIH’s director of professional development, said: “Every day, housing professionals create opportunities for people to find a home from which they can build the rest of their lives. The work we do is so important, which is why we want you to have the ability to demonstrate your professionalism and dedication to the sector using our professional standards.

“The new self-assessment tool is a fantastic way for housing professionals, regardless of role, tenure or specialism, to reflect on their development needs and identify where they can make positive changes to ensure we’re providing the best care, support and guidance our customers, tenants and residents.

“We want every housing professional to be recognised for their knowledge, behaviours, resilience and dedication. By applying the characteristics and standards in everyday practice, our profession will gain a higher degree of trust and credibility. It’s from this position of trust that we can best achieve our purpose – to create a future in which everyone has a place to call home.”