Scottish housing trainer expands UK reach for Grenfell inquiry.

Housing sector training provider Share is expanding its reach across the UK in response to the deadline looming for mandatory qualifications set by the Grenfell Inquiry. Share, based in Glasgow, is now one of only three providers in 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.

By April 2025, these qualifications will become a standard requirement for an estimated 25,000 senior housing managers and executives. This follows a UK-wide consultation and the introduction of new policies aimed at enhancing tenants’ service and experience. The qualifications are provided through remote learning, with the option for in-person study sessions across the country. They cover a variety of essential skills including professional practice, customer service, and housing law and policy.

Daryl McIntosh, CEO of Share, expressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “The deadline for these qualifications is less than 10 months away, and we understand that housing associations have faced challenges securing places for their senior teams on courses. We are in a unique position to guide both Scottish and English organisations through this essential qualification process, offering relevant qualifications tailored to their specific challenges.”

McIntosh continued, “While the government’s support for professionalising the sector is appreciated, we acknowledge that it presents another layer of challenge for housing associations. We are committed to training as many people as possible to ensure compliance with the new standards. Our goal is not only to help housing professionals attain the initial qualifications but also to support their continuous skill development through ongoing training opportunities.”

During the 24-month transition period, housing providers are required to have at least half of eligible staff either qualified or working towards certification within the first 12 months. All staff must be qualified by the end of the second year, and new employees have nine months to work towards or achieve certification. Additionally, housing organisations must update their policies regarding learning and development approaches, staff appraisals, performance reviews, and codes of conduct.

Mr. McIntosh emphasised, “We have been preparing for the new competence and conduct standards to ensure that social housing providers and their managers are well-prepared from the outset. These new standards mark a significant milestone for our industry, underscoring the crucial role qualified managers play in serving communities throughout Scotland and England.”