Meet the Malcolm Smith Award winner 2020

The Malcolm Smith prize is awarded for the best piece of work focusing on housing law or policy during the last academic year by a student in Scotland, studying up to MSc level. We caught up with the 2020 winner, University of Stirling student Caitlin Kane, to find out more about her studies and plans for the future.

What do you do?

I work as a Researcher for a Member of the Scottish Parliament. I carry out research with a view of shaping policy. I have been involved in conducting important campaigns and work directly with constituents to ensure their voices are heard in the policy-making process and that we help them with their day to day problems. MSPs are a key resource for people when they feel they have nowhere else to turn to. This necessitates an MSP and their staff intervening on their behalf and effectively becoming advocates for people. Housing is a central issue that people come to their MSP with concerns about; my experience in dealing with and helping these constituents has deepened my understanding of the housing sector in Scotland.

How did you start your housing career?

In my final year at university I was fortunate enough to get an internship with a large housing association, which gave me fantastic insight into housing management and the social housing sector. It was this experience, aligned with my Parliamentary work that inspired me to apply for an MSc in Housing Studies.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career to date?

As a researcher in the Scottish Parliament I have been involved in campaigns where we have managed to change the legislative process to benefit people. It is fantastic when the work we do helps to achieve structural change. I also love working with people and listening to first-hand experiences, which more often than not reminds me that we have some way to go to ensure fairness for everyone in our society. These experiences reinforce my commitment and my determination to affect change.

Why did you decide to study for the MSc in Housing?

The internship I completed at the Wheatley Group showed me the positive difference that some social housing providers are making to many of their tenants’ lives. Also, my current role as a parliamentary researcher has given me first-hand insight into the difficulties that many people have accessing affordable and decent housing. It seemed to me that if I wanted to pursue a career in housing, whether that be on the frontline or behind the scenes, the course would be invaluable and it has proven to be just that.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying for a housing qualification?

The course is fantastic for existing housing professionals and those who are new to the sector. It is very accessible and gives a great understanding of the practical requirements for a housing professional as well as a good insight into the policy context. The lecturers are very supportive and approachable too. If you are seriously considering a career in housing, look no further than this course.

Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

I am at a crossroads in my career as my job as a parliamentary researcher comes to an end in May at the 2021 Holyrood election. I would love to continue to use the skills that I have accumulated during my time working in parliament by specifically focussing on housing policy and research. That being said, I believe that policy is always best informed by practical experience and so I may turn to working on the frontline in the social housing sector too.

What tips would you give to someone thinking about a career in housing?

A career in housing is an opportunity to make a positive difference to tenants across Scotland. Everyone deserves a warm, decent and safe home, rooted in a community, where they can build their lives. As a frontline member of staff, you get to be part of this experience. I know that the career can be incredibly variable, challenging and rewarding and all of these things make it exciting. If you can, reach out to your local housing association or local authority to shadow a member of the housing team for real insight of their day-to-day work.