Case Study
Local Employment Group: Get into Housing
What is Get into Housing?
Get Into Housing was launched in 2022 to open access to the social housing sector for talented individuals from ethnically diverse backgrounds in Wales. The programme supports people who bring lived experience, potential and passion but may have faced barriers to employment.
Through paid placements, in work training and one to one mentorship, Get Into Housing creates pathways into meaningful careers rather than temporary jobs. By building a workforce that better reflects the communities it serves, the programme helps housing associations improve services, strengthen trust and achieve better outcomes.
Since its launch, the initiative has driven change through close collaboration with housing associations. By intentionally offering real opportunities to underrepresented groups, Get Into Housing demonstrates how the sector can become more inclusive and effective, advancing the vision of a more inclusive Wales.
What impact has Get into Housing had?
The programme has delivered significant personal and professional growth for participants. A recent survey showed that all those supported had reported higher confidence, improved interview skills, reduced barriers to employment and a clearer understanding of workplace expectations.
The wider housing sector has also benefited. Get into Housing is helping to create inclusive workplaces, promote fairer recruitment practices and build a pipeline of future talent. Participating organisations have gained from the diverse perspectives and experiences that participants bring to their teams.
How has CHIP helped?
Get into Housing supports vulnerable individuals from Black, Asian and ethnically diverse backgrounds in Wales, to help them to secure jobs in the Social Housing Sector.
Individuals complete a 16-week placement with some of CHIC’s member organisations, who are already signed up on the scheme. They offer placements to learners, also attending a Level 3 Looking into Housing and Community course, which is delivered by a Senior Lecturer in Social Policy at Cardiff Metropolitan University.
This year, CHIP is supporting seven learners through this programme, with £8,000 provided through its Community Chest Fund. The funding contributes towards supporting individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those who are long term unemployed (6 months+), NEET, from ethnically diverse communities, ex-offenders, women entering construction roles and victims of modern slavery. It also includes individuals with a history of homelessness, military service leavers, those aged 50+, people living with disabilities and care leavers.
Testimonials
Impact of CHIP Funding
CHIP’s funding has enabled the delivery of seven additional 16-week paid placements within the housing sector, creating valuable opportunities for individuals who may otherwise face barriers to employment.
The placements are having a clear impact both professionally and personally, helping participants build confidence, gain practical workplace experience, and prepare for long-term employment. Participants described how “It’s helped build my confidence and given me experience in the housing sector” and called the placement “an opportunity I’ve never had before, working in this kind of environment.”
Others highlighted the wider personal and developmental impact, sharing that the programme “made a big difference during a difficult time,” while another participant said, “I’ve gained practical skills and experience in a professional environment.” Participants also reflected on how they are “learning every day and getting used to the workplace” and that the placement is “helping prepare for employment through real workplace experience.”
The programme is not only supporting immediate employability but helping individuals gain confidence and direction for the future. As one participant explained, “You are gaining a lot of knowledge and experience and it really helps you grow.”