A survey of frontline housing professionals in Wales has revealed a workforce motivated by a desire to make a difference, but one that is under severe strain – impacting mental health and well-being.
The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Cymru’s latest sector snapshot report highlights how high workloads and reduced funding are taking their toll, with 21% of respondents saying that ongoing pressures had a major negative impact.
According to the snapshot survey, which was undertaken during November and December last year, 67% of housing professionals are motivated to work in the sector to make a difference.
However, 74% of respondents also stated that their mental health and well-being was negatively impacted by external pressures, including high workloads (32%), a lack of funding and difficulty in recruiting into the sector.
Matt Dicks, national director of CIH Cymru, said: “It is encouraging to see that the majority of respondents to our survey are motivated to work in housing as they want to help people, make a difference and have a positive impact.
“Yet it is also concerning that the continuing trend from respondents is that their mental health and well-being is getting worse due to the pressures the sector is facing from high workloads and a lack of funding.”
With the survey findings released ahead of May’s elections to the Senedd, CIH Cymru says it identifies one “clear priority” for the Welsh government – housing professionals what to be listened too, with 28% listing this as their number one priority.
One of the organisation;s key asks in its 2026 manifesto – A Plan for Housing in Wales – is for the next Welsh government to commit to a professional and resilient workforce.
“Housing, in line with other key professions, should be seen as a key pillar to the delivery of public services in Wales,” Dicks added. “This must include the development of a workforce strategy for housing professionals in Wales aimed at supporting the communities we serve, and ensuring an equitable housing system where everyone has the legislative right to a safe, suitable and affordable home.
“This must include investing in and supporting our workforce. Now is the time to ensure our housing workforce is truly valued and recognised for their expertise.”
Image credit: Matthew Dixon/Shutterstock
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