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Click here to download the SOCIAL_HOUSING_CROSSWORD_PUZZLE.pdf

The future of social housing was prudently addressed, following a riveting conversation held by Theresa Mays former chief of staff Nick Timothy at one of our own board awaydays, back in January.

Many believe that social housing is nearing the bottom of the agenda when it comes to the implications of Brexit and is being heavily overlooked.

Arguable, the main issue that the social housing sector is going to face is the logistical changes to supply chains. With materials like timber being heavily imported from the EU, many merchants have already begun contingency planning to maintain their sustainability, and have adopted the approach of stockpiling materials; however, it’s a very temporary solution

The overcomplicating of importing materials is set to have some implications on the affordability of social homes, whether this is going to be for the good or bad of renters in the UK.

But the question is, does anyone know what they are doing? Planning for the unknown is an impossible feat in all walks of life, let alone when looking to mitigate the effects of Brexit on an entire industry.

The potential knock-on effects are endless with the immediate ones possibly the most damaging. Will we begin seeing more or less jobs in the construction industry? Half of construction workers in London come from the EU and many have already gone back to avoid being ‘stuck’.

The effects that deal or no deal Brexit could be endless from temporary purchasing alternative materials to a complete logistical change, steering away from current just in time solutions.

Going from a blanket agreement to, well, who knows what, is going to be a huge change regardless of the specifics and the social housing market is inevitably going to learn to adapt no matter what comes its way; Deal or No Deal is just the beginning of something bigger.

With every future deal coming from UK Parliament, surely our government will do what is best for UK citizens? It is no secret that the UK has been in a housing crisis for some time now with the publication of reports like the Shelter’s “vision for social housing”.

Although the UK is going Brexit crazy, there’s no need to panic. CHIC has been actively collaborating with its members / suppliers to gather intel on what is the best course of action to mitigate the amount of disruption to the supply chain. 95% of Manufacturers and Distributors have already plans in place to mitigate for a No deal vote with the large majority being determined as low risk. (Testimonial from a supplier)

CHIC has engaged with it’s supply chain to ensure that members have contingencies in place for every aspect of property maintenance requirements.

CHIC’s Merchant Services Manager (maybe change it to Supply chain manager) is of the opinion that: “The worst thing that we in the social housing industry can do right now, is to put our heads in the sand and hope that this storm will pass us by. The first thing that will be affected will be supply chains, as we see in other sectors such as the automotive industry. Arguably if housing associations engage with purchasing groups, in respect of their suppliers, trends will be noticeable which means that steps can be taken to mitigate negative effects.”

As rightly pointed out purchasing groups such as CHIC, are better positioned to notice trends in the market that individual housing associations cannot see, and this is purely down to the number of suppliers each engages. Having a pool of suppliers providing the same type of service, normally via a framework, will allow members that purchase through that group a better understanding of where the market is going.

In these trialling times, co-operation is key, and instead of we can do it better, we need to do it better together.

The question is then, what has your association done to ensure that services will not drop.

Quote from Bournville to come: - need to chase giles again today.

If you are worried about the Brexit impact on your organisation, please give us a call.

Procurement Update for CHIC Members
By Sam Domican, Director of Procurement

CHIC remains committed to delivering robust, member focused procurement solutions that support the full spectrum of asset management services and has been embedding the Procurement Act into all new framework activities. Here is the latest update on our framework procurement programme:

CHIC Procurement Team Supporting the New Procurement Regime
As the new public procurement regime continues to embed across the sector, CHIC’s Procurement Team is proud to be playing an active role in supporting its successful implementation.

Through our involvement in the Cabinet Office’s Communities of Practice, members of the team have been recognised as Advanced and Expert Practitioner Superusers, reflecting their expertise and commitment to driving best practice.

In this role, the team has supported the adoption of the new regulatory framework by acting as trusted advisors, identifying implementation challenges and sharing insight across a wide network of public sector professionals. This collaborative approach has contributed to a strong and growing community focused on knowledge exchange and continuous improvement.

Being at the forefront of sector and procurement developments is important to CHIC. Our active engagement ensures that we remain up to date with the latest guidance, policy changes and best practice, enabling us to provide informed, effective support to our members and supply chain partners.

As the procurement landscape continues to evolve, CHIC remains committed to maintaining this position, ensuring our members benefit from the highest standards of expertise, insight and innovation. 

 

Live Procurements

CHIC Merchants Framework – Evaluation in progressThe evaluation of bids is nearing completion for the re-procurement of the CHIC Merchants & Materials Framework, in partnership with Efficiency North. More information can be found here https://www.chicltd.co.uk/news/chic-merchants-framework-published/

CHIC Consultancy Framework – Evaluation in progressThe evaluation of bids is underway for the re-procurement of the CHIC Consultancy Framework. The scope and lot structure covers a wide range of built environment related professional consultancy services, comprising but not restricted to Building Surveying, Contract Administration, Employers Agent, Quantity Surveying, and Principal Designer services, and other roles that may be required to support the delivery of high-quality sector asset related projects. More information can be found here: https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/010587-2026

Frameworks in Procurement Planning StagePlanning is underway for the following new frameworks

Asset Compliance & Assurance Framework - This framework includes lots and sublots for Compliance Audits, Water Hygiene, Asbestos Inspection and Abatement Services and General Risk Advisory Services. UK1 Pipeline notice has been updated to inform the market of the upcoming procurement: https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/012537-2026

Roofing - This is a comprehensive multi lot framework to deliver all types of roofing repairs and replacements. The scope of the framework is now being developed by the CHIC team. UK1 Pipeline notice has been published to inform the market of the upcoming procurement:  https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/034345-2026

Dynamic MarketsIn parallel, CHIC is actively developing a comprehensive strategy for the implementation of the CHIC Dynamic Marketplace, aimed at increasing procurement agility and supplier access. In line with the Procurement Act 2023, CHIC’s Dynamic Purchasing Systems (DPS) will be progressively replaced by Dynamic Markets.


Are your CHIC eSourcing profile and contact details up to date?
We understand that suppliers may have internal changes from time to time due to organisational evolution and staffing moves. Your correct and up to date contact details are essential on the CHIC eSourcing portal to avoid any missed communications on potential live tender opportunities.

Benefits of keeping your CHIC eSourcing profile up-to-date; 
- Avoid missed tender opportunity notifications.- Stay connected to ongoing post-tender clarifications.- Manage all your ongoing tender and DPS/Dynamic Market activity in one place.

Through the Community Chest Fund, CHIP is proud to support Amber Bee, an initiative delivering important anti-social behaviour and mental wellbeing programmes to children aged 8–11 in primary schools across England.

The Impact of Early Intervention
This project serves as a critical preventative measure. By engaging children before they become involved in anti-social behaviour, Amber Bee supports long term community safety. The programme also prioritises mental health, teaching students how to manage complex emotions, build resilience and maintain a positive outlook on their future.

Proven Success in the CommunityAmber Bee relies on external funding to sustain its reach. A recent collaboration in Telford, supported by CHIP and the Housing Plus Group, has already demonstrated remarkable results. With CHIP’s financial backing, the programme successfully reached 4,691 children identified as being "at risk."

Meet Your CSR Commitments
Social value is at the core of our operations. All contracts procured through CHIC are required to dedicate a minimum of 1% of turnover to social value initiatives.

Whether you are a CHIC member or a supplier looking for an impactful way to deliver on your Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals, Amber Bee offers a transparent and effective route to giving back. Partnering with this project allows you to demonstrate a tangible commitment to the communities where you work.

Ready to make a difference?

Contact Emma to discuss how you can support Amber Bee and fulfill your social value requirements – emacaulay@chipcharity.org.uk

 

CHIP Dinner & Awards – Last Chance to Book Your Place
Our annual CHIP Dinner & Awards is fast approaching and we want you to be part of an evening dedicated to celebrating excellence. Whether it’s a colleague who consistently goes above and beyond, a social value project that has transformed a community, or an apprentice making waves in the industry, now is the time to ensure they get the recognition they deserve. Here is what you need to do:

1. Book Your Tickets or Table
Don’t miss out on this important celebration of achievement. We still have individual seats and table sponsorships available for those who want to network and celebrate.
Pricing & Registration

2. Submit Your Nominations
The heart of this event is recognising the people who make a difference. We are still welcoming nominations across all categories. If someone in your team stands out, please submit your entry before the deadline.
Closing Date: 30th April
Nominate Now

3. Support Our Raffle
Are you attending and looking for another way to contribute? We are seeking raffle prize donations to help make the evening even more impactful, with the raffle proceeds funding CHIP projects. If you or your organisation would like to donate, please get in touch at marketing@chicltd.co.uk

Event Details
Date: Wednesday 3rd June 2026
Time: From 6:30 PM
Venue: Telford International Centre, TF3 4JH

If you have any questions regarding the event or the nomination process, please contact Emma, our Social Value Manager, at emacaulay@chipcharity.org.uk.

Case Study

Delivering Warm Homes at Scale Across Wiltshire

Wiltshire Council needed a compliant and efficient way to deliver the Warm Homes Local Grant at scale, supporting fuel poor households across the county. By appointing EDF as Managing Agent through the CHIC Healthy Homes Framework, the Council secured a turnkey service covering the full process - from resident engagement and eligibility checks to technical assessments, retrofit design and delivery of energy efficiency improvements.

This approach enabled rapid mobilisation, reduced procurement time and eased pressure on internal teams while maintaining strong governance and compliance. With CHIC’s support and EDF’s delivery expertise, the programme has been scaled effectively, helping more vulnerable households access funding and benefit from improved home energy efficiency.
Read the full case study

Thought Leadership

Homes England National Housing Bank – a step closer to solving the housing crisis?

The launch of the Homes England National Housing Bank is a major government initiative aimed at addressing England’s housing crisis by unlocking large scale investment to accelerate the delivery of new homes and regeneration projects. Backed by up to £16 billion of public finance, the bank is designed to work with developers, housing providers and investors to increase housing supply and overcome barriers to delivery.

By offering a mix of debt, equity and guarantees, the National Housing Bank aims to crowd in private investment and support the delivery of over 500,000 homes alongside wider infrastructure and regeneration schemes. It seeks to improve housing viability, speed up delivery and provide more flexible long term funding solutions to help get stalled projects moving.

Sarah Davey, CHIC’s Head of Development, discusses how the National Housing Bank could transform housing delivery, unlock investment at scale and support the sector in tackling long standing affordability and supply challenges.
Read More
Navigating the Town and Country Planning Regulations 2026: What It Means for Social Housing Providers

Achieving net zero in housing has moved beyond ambition to the challenge of large scale delivery, with many organisations still facing barriers such as fragmented supply chains, inconsistent funding and limited coordination. The article highlights that decarbonisation cannot be delivered in isolation and that greater alignment across policy, procurement, delivery partners and residents is essential to make meaningful progress.

While some progress is being made through shared data, partnerships and aggregated demand, these approaches need to become standard practice across the sector. With increasing regulatory pressure and funding opportunities, a more coordinated and collaborative approach is critical to scaling retrofit programmes and achieving long term net zero goals.

Sarah Davey, CHIC’s Head of Development, discusses how providers can successfully navigate the updated planning landscape, strengthen delivery pipelines and ensure compliance while continuing to meet housing need.
Read More

Collaboration: Unlocking Net Zero in Housing

The housing sector has shifted from setting net zero ambitions to delivering them, but progress is slow due to a lack of alignment across policy, funding, supply chains and resident engagement. No single organisation can tackle this alone, making collaboration essential to scaling delivery.

While some progress is being made through partnerships, shared data and coordinated retrofit programmes, wider adoption is needed. Regulation, funding and stronger resident engagement are helping to drive a more joined up, long term approach.

Pauline Lutaaya, Partnerships Manager, explores how collaboration across the housing sector is key to unlocking net zero delivery at scale and overcoming systemic challenges.
Read More

Managing condensation, mould and poor indoor air quality remains a major challenge for housing providers across the UK. With increasing regulatory focus on resident wellbeing and property standards, effective extract ventilation has become a critical component of long-term asset management strategies.

Vent-Axia has enhanced its Lo-Carbon Revive 7, a continuous running decentralised mechanical extract ventilation (dMEV) fan, designed specifically to support social housing providers in delivering healthier homes while improving installation efficiency and ongoing maintenance.

Designed for real-world retrofit challenges
The Lo-Carbon Revive 7 has been developed with the realities of social housing retrofit firmly in mind. Many properties present constraints such as limited ceiling voids, restricted service routes and the need to work in occupied homes.

With its compact footprint, slim profile and flexible installation options - including wall, ceiling and window mounting - the unit is quick and easy to install while minimising disruption to residents. Configuration is simple via the integrated Smart Sense™ LED display, which provides a clear, intuitive interface for commissioning and data gathering.

As a filter-less unitary fan, the Revive 7 requires minimal maintenance. Its innovative Multi-Vortex™ technology actively repels dust build-up, reducing the risk of clogging and helping to avoid unnecessary call-backs for housing providers managing large housing portfolios.

Efficient, high-performance ventilation
Energy efficiency and performance are key priorities for both landlords and residents. The Revive 7 delivers powerful yet quiet ventilation, with adjustable trickle speeds and boost settings tailored for kitchen and bathroom applications.

Capable of extracting up to 60l/s in kitchen settings, the unit provides high performance on trickle to help maintain good indoor air quality without frequently ramping up to boost mode. This not only reduces noise but also improves energy efficiency during everyday operation.

The fan’s intelligent humidity sensing ensures it responds proportionally to changes in moisture levels—boosting when needed while avoiding over-ventilation. This helps effectively manage condensation at source, a critical factor in reducing mould growth.

Supporting healthier indoor environments
Condensation and mould are strongly linked to poor ventilation and excess moisture, particularly in high-use areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. The Lo-Carbon Revive 7 is designed to extract moisture at source, helping to prevent it from spreading throughout the property.

By continuously removing stale, humid air and replacing it with fresh air through natural infiltration, the unit supports improved indoor air quality and greater comfort for residents.

Smart technology for better asset management
The Revive 7 features Smart Sense™ technology, providing real-time data via its LED display. This includes metrics such as days run, trickle and boost hours, and energy usage - giving landlords greater visibility over system performance and running costs.

A unique lock setting prevents tampering, offering added reassurance for housing providers. Combined with its 7-year warranty and robust, low-maintenance design, the Revive 7 is built to support long-term asset management strategies.

Built for social housing
Designed specifically for the social housing sector, the Lo-Carbon Revive 7 offers a reliable, easy-to-install and low-maintenance solution for tackling condensation and mould. By delivering consistent, efficient extract ventilation at source, it helps housing providers meet regulatory requirements while improving living conditions for residents.

Find out more at https://www.vent-axia.com/