Social enterprise Places for People (PfP) has introduced an "industry-first" training pathway for housing managers, which combines housing and customer service qualifications.

The new 'Service in Housing Pathway' will be delivered by PfP's own Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH)-accredited training academy, PfP Thrive.

The new programme will allow participants to achieve a CIH Level 3 qualification in Housing Practice, along with accredited modules from the Institute of Customer Service. The initiative is part of a strategic shift by PfP to a more proactive, community-based approach, which has included a substantial investment in creating more frontline roles.

-- Advertisement --

Rachel Crownshaw, Group Managing Director for Communities at Places for People, said the new pathway was developed because "housing management requires a different approach, combining customer service with a housing qualification." She added that the training will help to play a "compelling role in the improvement of standards across the housing sector."

The programme is open to PfP's Community Housing Managers and Service Managers, and will offer a foundation for those who wish to progress to more senior roles and gain higher-level qualifications. Tom Arey, Director for PfP Thrive, confirmed that while the programme will initially focus on PfP staff, the academy plans to work with other housing providers to enrol their staff too.

Elly Hoult, President of the CIH, said the programme "is a bold and innovative step that helps raise the bar across the industry."