Housing Community Summit

Housing Community Summit: Transforming UK Social Housing 

Housing Community Summit is the UK’s leading event for housing professionals, offering a unique platform to shape the future of social housing. Held annually, this summit brings together thousands of practitioners, leaders, policymakers, and residents to collaborate, innovate, and drive meaningful change. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the summit’s purpose, structure, key themes, and why it’s become a cornerstone of the housing sector. 

What Is the Housing Community Summit? 

The Housing Community Summit is a joint initiative by the National Housing Federation (NHF) and the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH). It’s designed to be a sector-led, community-driven event that fosters collaboration across all levels of the housing industry. Unlike traditional conferences, this summit prioritises human connection, shared learning, and actionable outcomes. 

Purpose and Vision 

The summit’s core mission is to: 

• Empower housing professionals to shape policy and practice. 
• Create space for residents to voice their experiences. 
• Address pressing social issues through collective action. 
• Promote innovation and inclusivity in housing delivery. 

By focusing on real-world challenges and practical solutions, the summit aims to transform the way housing is delivered and experienced across the UK. 

Structure of the Summit 

To cater to a diverse audience, the Housing Community Summit is divided into two main tracks: 

1. Housing in Focus 

This track is tailored for strategic leaders and decision-makers. It covers: 

• Sector-wide challenges 
• Leadership strategies 
• Funding models and investment 
• Policy development 

Sessions in this track are designed to provide high-level insights and strategic direction for those shaping the future of housing. 

2. Housing in Practice 

This track is ideal for frontline practitioners and operational staff. It includes: 

• Resident engagement techniques 
• Community building strategies 
• Service delivery improvements 
• Case studies and best practices 

The practical nature of this track ensures that attendees leave with tangible tools and actionable knowledge. 

Key Themes and Topics 

Each year, the summit addresses the most pressing issues facing the housing sector. Recent themes have included: 

Resident Engagement 

Empowering residents to participate in decision-making is a cornerstone of the summit. Sessions explore: 

• Co-production models 
• Feedback mechanisms 
• Building trust and transparency 

Social Purpose and Values 

The summit reinforces the sector’s commitment to social justice, equity, and community wellbeing. Discussions focus on: 

• Aligning organisational values with resident needs 
• Ethical leadership 
• Purpose-driven innovation 

Innovation in Housing Delivery 

From modular homes to digital transformation, innovation is a recurring theme. Attendees learn about: 

• Emerging technologies 
• Sustainable building practices 
• Data-driven service models 

Community Building and Wellbeing 

Creating thriving communities is central to the summit’s agenda. Topics include: 

• Mental health support 
• Anti-social behaviour interventions 
• Immigration and integration strategies 
• Domestic violence prevention 

Highlights from the 2025 Summit 

The 2025 Housing Community Summit was held in Liverpool and featured several standout moments: 

Decent Homes Standard 

A renewed focus on the Decent Homes Standard highlighted the need for: 

• Upgraded housing stock 
• Improved living conditions 
• Accountability and transparency 

Skills Development 

With a growing skills gap in the sector, the summit addressed: 

• Workforce training 
• Apprenticeship programmes 
• Leadership development 

Sector Collaboration 

Attendees praised the summit’s inclusive atmosphere, noting its emphasis on collaboration over competition. The event fostered: 

• Cross-sector partnerships 
• Resident-led initiatives 
• Peer-to-peer learning 

Why the Housing Community Summit Matters 

The Housing Community Summit is a vital event that sets itself apart by being sector-led and resident-focused. Unlike commercial conferences, it is designed by and for housing professionals, placing a strong emphasis on resident voices, practitioner needs, and community impact. What makes the summit especially powerful is its action-oriented approach. Attendees don’t just engage in dialogue; they leave with clear action plans, new partnerships, and practical tools to drive real change. Furthermore, the summit is inclusive and diverse, welcoming housing officers, CEOs, tenants, and policymakers alike. This broad representation fosters a rich exchange of ideas and promotes holistic problem-solving across the housing sector. 

Why Vital Heating Solutions Attended 

John found the summit both enjoyable and productive. Many existing clients were present, which provided a chance to strengthen those relationships, while also meeting companies Vital Heating Solutions would like to work with in the future.

The event aligned perfectly with the company’s goals and direction, and being there was essential. Overall, it was a great event and Vital Heating Solutions needed to be part of it. 

How to Get Involved 

Whether you’re a housing professional, policymaker, or resident, there are several ways to engage with the Housing Community Summit: 

Attend the Next Summit 

The next event will be held on 8–9 September 2026 at the Exhibition Centre Liverpool. Early registration is recommended due to high demand. 

Conclusion: Shaping the Future Together 

The Housing Community Summit is more than an event, it’s a movement. By bringing together diverse voices and fostering meaningful collaboration, it empowers the sector to build better homes, stronger communities, and a fairer society. 

Whether you’re a seasoned leader or a new apprentice, your voice matters. Join the conversation, share your insights, and help shape the future of UK housing.