Housing professionals from across the country recently gathered at Monksdown Primary School in Liverpool to explore how the sector can inspire the next generation to see housing as a career of choice.
Led by pupils, the event gave attendees the unique opportunity to experience Positive Footprints’ aspirations-based learning programmes. This was followed by a roundtable discussion around ways to open up careers in housing to children and young people living in their communities.
Endorsed by the CIH and NHF, the campaign calls on housing partners to invest in award-winning educational programmes to collectively inspire 10,000 children.
Lesley Burrows, Founder and Managing Director of Positive Footprints, and Executive Director at The Regenda Group, said: “Discover Housing builds on the strong commitment housing associations already make to employability and skills support within their communities.
“We know aspirations form early, and by starting this journey sooner, we can improve outcomes in life, learning and work. Housing organisations are uniquely placed to create opportunities where they are needed most.
“The event was an inspiring opportunity to explore the difference we can make together, and how we can collaborate to empower the next generation and position housing as a career of choice.”
The campaign will build on Positive Footprints’ significant impact with partner organisations already; in 2024–25, 11,526 children took part across 275 primary schools, generating over £7m in social value.
Discover Housing will see organisations support at least one primary school in their community for two years, embedding careers-led learning into the curriculum and enabling pupils to connect with housing professionals from their organisation.
Rachael Williamson, Director of Policy, Communications and External Affairs at the Chartered Institute of Housing commented: “The Chartered Institute of Housing is delighted to endorse the Positive Footprints campaign, which inspires children to see the meaningful impact a career in housing can have – both for themselves and their communities.
“This initiative offers organisations a fantastic opportunity to engage locally, highlighting the vital role housing professionals play in building strong, thriving communities.
“It also showcases the sector’s diverse and rewarding career opportunities at a formative age, when children are just beginning to explore their future ambitions.”
Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation said: “The National Housing Federation is thrilled to support this transformative partnership between social housing and education, which aims to inspire the next generation about the career opportunities in housing and the importance of providing quality, affordable homes for all.”
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