Introduced earlier this year after the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, Awaab’s Law will force social landlords to fix damp and mould within strict time limits, in a new amendment to the Social Housing Regulation Bill. It will also require around 25,000 social housing managers across the sector to have an appropriate level housing management qualification regulated by Ofqual equivalent to a Level 4 or 5 Certificate or Diploma in Housing, or a foundation degree from the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH).
“The changes we are delivering today will make sure social housing managers across the country have the right skills and experience to deliver an excellent service and drive up standards across the board.”
Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities
Having received royal assent in parliament, the Social Housing (Regulation) Act Social Housing Managers will be legally obligated to possess one of the qualifications mentioned above in order to continue in their role. Chris Stoker-Jones, Director of Client Engagement & Experience at Learn Plus Us says about this development:
“This is a significant development within the Housing sector and Learn Plus Us is in a perfect position to support housing associations, local authorities and other organisations to meet this impending legislation. Our commitment to providing learning and development opportunities to organisations, individuals and communities to provide impactful change sits right at the heart of this change in legislation. Our apprenticeships and qualifications allow those working in social housing to learn, achieve and excel in their field, whilst at the same time providing their employers with the peace of mind that they have met their statutory requirements.
It is important for Housing Associations to note that apprenticeships can be funded through the Apprenticeship Levy, which is in effect a training or Learning & Development budget to be used to access training that meets the impending legislation. As an approved CIH Study Centre, we offer a wide range of CIH qualifications, which can be embedded within an apprenticeship or offered as a standalone training programme.”
At Learn Plus Us, we offer multiple routes for housing managers to achieve these qualifications.
Apprenticeship
Our Level 4 Senior Housing and Property Management apprenticeship is perfect for individuals already working in a management position within the social housing sector.
CIH Qualification
This Level 4 Certificate in Housing will meet the legislation fully and is delivered across 12 months, 100% online. The course includes 2 hour tutorials bi-monthly with 1:1 tutor support every month to provide feedback, advice & guidance on assignments.
Hybrid Qualification
for those that are perhaps not in a position to take on a Level 4 Apprenticeship, we can offer a combination of our Level 3 Housing and Property Management Apprenticeship that includes the L4 Certificate in Housing CIH qualification embedded within the curriculum.
To find out more about the how Learn Plus Us can help you and your teams ensure compliance with this new legislation and start your path towards the required qualifications, contact the team today at Housing@learnplusus.co.uk