GLASGOW-based training provider Share has announced it will deliver work across the UK as the deadline looms for mandatory qualifications introduced in response to the Grenfell Inquiry.
The firm revealed it is now one of only three providers across the UK able to offer the required Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Level 4 Certificate in Managing Housing Maintenance and one of 17 to provide CIH Level 4 Certificate in Housing.
From April 2025 the qualifications will become a standard requirement for an estimated 25,000 senior housing managers and executives, following a UK-wide consultation and new policies introduced that seek to improve tenants’ service and experience.
Provided through remote learning which can also be supported by in-person study sessions, the qualifications cover skills including professional practice, customer service and housing law and policy.
Daryl McIntosh, CEO of Share, said, “The requirement for these qualifications is now fewer than 10 months away and we know that housing associations have struggled to secure places on courses for their senior teams. We’re in a unique position where we can guide not only Scottish, but now also English organisations through this essential qualification process, with qualifications that are relevant to the challenges they face.
“While the government support for professionalising the sector is very welcome, we do recognise that it adds another layer of challenge for housing associations. We’ll do everything we can to train as many people as possible. As always, we’re committed to helping housing professionals in the country not only meet the initial qualifications, but continuously develop their skills through ongoing training opportunities.”
During the 24-month transition, standards will require housing providers to have at least half of eligible staff either qualified or working toward the necessary certification within the first 12 months. All staff must be qualified by the end of the second year and new employees will have nine months to be working towards or achieve certification.
Housing organisations must also implement updated policies related to learning and development approaches, staff appraisals, performance reviews, and codes of conduct.
Daryl added, “We’ve been preparing for the new competence and conduct standards to ensure social housing providers and their managers are well-equipped from day one. These new standards represent a significant step for our industry, reinforcing the vital role qualified managers play in serving communities across the whole of Scotland and England.”
