Louis Kennedy

With young people in Scotland experiencing unprecedented levels of housing need, the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) and the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) have today come together to launch a new online resource to bolster both housing and young people’s careers.

Launched as part of Scottish Careers Week, the ‘Your Career in Housing’ website has been created to provide young people with the skills and opportunities needed to get into a meaningful career and, in doing so, help tackle the housing crisis.

With more than 200 different roles in social housing alone, it outlines the huge variety in the sector from helping people who may have extra needs as a supported housing officer to creating thriving communities as a community development officer.

SFHA and CIH say the resource aims to give a boost to housing in Scotland by bringing more young people into the sector.

Not only will the site give practical guides on everything from writing a CV through to how to answer interview questions, but it will include a wealth of resources for young jobseekers and employers on how to find work, different roles across the housing sector, and testimonials from young people who have already taken the first steps in their career.

SFHA’s director of external affairs, Carolyn Lochhead, said: “Our members employ over 13,000 people and that work is hugely varied – from workers in welfare rights and homelessness prevention through to the people who make sure we’re building the social homes we desperately need. It’s these staff who ensure millions of people throughout Scotland have a place to call home, with all the support they need to stay there.

“That’s why it’s absolutely essential that our young people know what a career in housing can offer and how to get there. Without them, we simply can’t build the homes and provide the support that’s needed to end homelessness.”

The Chartered Institute of Housing, the industry body for housing professionals across the UK, also welcomed the launch of the website noting that it added to their significant member offering of continuous professional development.

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Callum Chomczuk, national director of CIH Scotland, said: “Working in Scotland’s housing sector can be hugely rewarding, but despite landlords employing tens of thousands of people across every community in the country, the jobs, roles and opportunities available in the profession are often not well known outwith it.

“This resource that we are launching today is a tool for teachers, pupils, career advisors and social landlords to kick-start a conversation about the range of careers available in the sector for ambitious and values driven young people.

“We all want to see the development of the next generation of housing leaders and we hope that this resource will ensure we have a skilled, educated and plentiful workforce to help meet the housing needs of Scotland.”

The website has also received backing from recent graduates who have encouraged more young people to get involved in housing.

Louis Kennedy was a graduate trainee with Link Group and shortlisted in the CIH Scotland Housing Awards 2023 in the Apprentice of the Year category.

Louis said: “I chose a career in housing after enjoying a housing module as part of my degree and my dad, who himself worked in housing, recommended it as well.

I’ve really enjoyed my first year and a half. It’s been challenging, informative, and I think I’ve developed a lot - both as a person and an employee. I’ve also gained experience working in really varied areas and now I’ve been able to secure a role as a Factoring Officer. It’s a really rewarding role as you can see the real impact - but all areas of housing are valuable to people’s lives.”

Sharon McIntyre, head of Skills Development Scotland’s careers service, who runs Scottish Careers Week, said: “This new website dedicated to careers in housing is a very welcome move by SFHA and CIH, and we are delighted they have chosen to launch the service during Scottish Careers Week.

“In addition to their web resources, our very own careers advisers are on hand all year round in schools, in our local community venues, online at myworldofwork.co.uk and through our Helpline on 0800 917 8000 to offer further expert advice and guidance if needed.”