A Q&A with CIH’s vice president elect, Elly Hoult FCIH

We caught up with the winner of our 2023 vice presidential election, Peabody’s Elly Hoult, to find out more about her ambitions for the role and how she intends to support incoming president Jill Murray. 

What does housing mean to you? 

A home should provide security, safety, comfort, and wellbeing. My own home offers me solace in times of need. That sanctuary should be available to everybody. 

However, we recently learned there are 131,000 children living in temporary accommodation. This is not just a statistic: it paints a grave picture of the housing crisis, and one that must be addressed urgently. 

What made you want to put yourself forward for the role of CIH vice president? 

Navigating the housing sector wasn’t easy for me - it took a lot of hard work. There are no clear pathways into housing, which means we are missing out on so much talent, and when you are in the sector, it’s sometimes difficult get the support and guidance you need to reach your potential. 

I did, however, find a way though my membership with CIH, which has supported me in so many ways throughout my career. I owe CIH so much. I want to support the profession so that every member feels valued and empowered to provide a high-quality service to our residents. 

You’ve been involved with the CIH for several years - what have you learnt from your work with us? 

CIH is more than an organisation. The guidance, support, and camaraderie that I find within its network of members has been transformative to me and so many others. We are facing the most challenging circumstances I have ever faced in my career. We have seen recent headlines about housing officers feeling overwhelmed and burned out, and when I speak to members, I am hearing this at every level. 

CIH is a place where members can find help, guidance, and education, but also find support and friendship, which is needed now more than ever. 

Who inspires you in housing? 

I find inspiration every day. This week, one of our housing officers was concerned about an elderly resident who barely had any furniture...Despite him telling her he was OK, she was uncomfortable and supported him to open up. 

It transpired he was being financially abused by a neighbour, and he was left with little money to buy food or fulfil his basic needs. Social services were contacted, and they are now in regular contact and can keep him safe.

Elly Hoult

“Let’s be honest - young people know more than most what it’s like to live in a housing crisis

These small acts of curiosity and kindness happen all over the UK every day in housing, and that is what makes me proud to work in housing.

What are some of the key issues you’d like to help tackle - or causes you’re keen to champion - during your time as vice president? 

I will be promoting the professionalisation agenda. We are not making the most of the emerging young talent within the sector. I have strived to break down barriers and open doors for underrepresented voices, playing a pivotal role in establishing CIH Futures setup to amplify the young voices and involve them in shaping our direction. Let’s be honest: young people know more than most what it's like to live in a housing crisis. 

As I step into my role as a relatively new senior leader, it is imperative that we reorient ourselves, and we need to do that by leveraging our collective wisdom. Most commentators we hear from have a lifetime of experience and believe they have all the answers. I say they don’t. Let’s get a fresh perspective, the younger generation of professionals will bring that to the table. 

I am committed to ensuring that every member, regardless of their age, background, or circumstance, feels valued and empowered and can have a say in our direction of travel. 

To what extent will the renewed drive toward greater professionalisation in the sector inform your role as vice president? 

The renewed focus on professionalisation will be key to my campaign. Inclusivity is a vital component of the professionalisation of the sector. I will strive to ensure we foster an environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds are not only welcomed but also have equal access to opportunities and career advancement. 

Ultimately, your role as vice-president will see you becoming CIH president in just over a year’s time. How does it feel to be joining an illustrious list of previous vice presidents and presidents? 

Being elected by the members is a privilege, and I hope I can live up to their understandably high expectations.