A few thoughts from our outgoing Chair
09/03/09
Graham Maunders, CIH South East's outgoing Chair, shares his views on his busy two-year term as chair of the region.
'Sadly my term of office came to an end at this year's conference. Whilst I feel we have made strides in some areas, there is of course still more to do.
'We have listened to you, our members, and have strived to make the CIH more relevant to your needs. One example being this ezine, which I hope that you find helpful in keeping you up to date with what's going on. Another is the programme of regional events that we have finally started, with our own regional coordinator (unique to the South East). This activity is supported by the most successful regional housing conference - now developed to the extent that it supports other activities financially, producing real value for members.
'To help our members and others understand our work and encourage more involvement, the Committee has set out a clear set of objectives - our Corporate Objectives 2008-10.
'Another important activity has been the development of closer working with a range of key regional agencies to help tackle housing issues. This is really important, particularly in the current climate, to ensure we comprehensively tackle social, economic and environmental issues.
'I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge and thank my colleagues involved in the South East Committee for all their help and support. They put in an awful lot of time and energy into our work, in addition to busy day jobs and lives generally. In the South East we are very lucky to have had the dedication and commitment we have.
'We are also very fortunate to have the first CIH President from the South East region for many years. I have very much enjoyed working with Steve Benson who is doing a great job promoting our work.
'I would like to wish our incoming Chair, Claire Martin, every success. Claire brings a range of skills and experience to our work, demonstrating the richness of the CIH's membership which covers all the sectors involved in housing.
'Housing is a BIG job and the phrase 'always more to do but not enough time' springs to mind! But we do get results. Over the past ten or so years, we have made very significant strides forward within the region and beyond; new homes built, decent homes achieved and communities regenerated. It is always easier to think of the things we haven't done, the to-do list, often forgetting the successes - no matter how small, they do accumulate and make a difference.
'May your glass of wine or beer (or whatever your poison) always be half full!'
Graham Maunders