Debbie's drum roll
14/01/10
Debbie Harvey, Senior Project Manager for Drum Housing in Petersfield, gained a first-class degree for her BA (Hons) Social Housing. And, as a result, has been awarded a CIH Achievement Award.
Debbie's work history
'My housing career started in January 2000. Using my administration and customer services experience, my first job at Drum Housing Association was as a customer services administrator. At that time I didn't know or anticipate that I was embarking on a career in housing - my priority was a part-time job which created a work-life balance with family commitments!
'However, this soon changed when, in 2001, I was successfully appointed customer services manager. I was responsible for the smooth running of a one-stop shop customer service team.
'In 2003 I took a three-year secondment as a community liaison co-ordinator, working solely with the residents involved in the REEMA regeneration project in Petersfield. The project culminated in 148 environmentally-sustainable mixed-tenure homes which replaced 58 prefabricated concrete-constructed houses. The original homes were built to address the housing shortage post-WWII with a life expectancy of just 30 years.
'During the secondment, I transferred permanently to a project manager post. And, in 2007, became a senior project manager. I'm now responsible for seeking new business and delivering sustainable mixed-tenure developments.'
All this while studying
'In early 2003, when I worked as a customer services manager, I was encouraged to undertake the one-year Housing Graduate Conversion Course (GCC) at Southampton Institute (now Southampton Solent University). I then decided to pursue the two-year Diploma which I successfully completed in 2006.
'Having got that far, the opportunity to top up my award to a degree was too good to miss. My employer agreed to continue paying my fees and support my day-release.
'Unfortunately the degree course was redesigned and didn't run in 2006-07 but, honouring its support, Drum let me start the two-year part-time degree in September 2007. I also attained my MCIH status.
'As I was sharing lectures with social workers, the course also contributed to my continuing professional development. The different cultures and working practices heightened my awareness of the need for continuous improvement in joint working to ensure that clients' needs are met.'
Southampton's strengths
'I really enjoyed studying at Southampton - meeting and making friends with housing colleagues (I studied with some from 2003) who work within a range of roles. I can't deny it was hard work at times, studying a range of housing topics that didn't necessarily fit with my day job. But sharing experiences with lecturers and housing colleagues combined the theory with practical learning.
'From a personal point of view, it was good to study in an environment away from work. And I also really enjoyed combining study with a well-earned trip to West Quay Shopping Centre in lunch breaks and after lectures!'
A first-class result
'I had a real mix of emotions when I got my first - shock because I couldn't believe that I actually did it. I had to keep checking the University website to make sure it was right. But I was also absolutely over the moon. Friends, family and colleagues have been spoiling me with cards, flowers and champagne ever since! I'm pleased the hard work paid off.'
CIH Achievement Award
'And I'm delighted to be recognised by CIH South East for my work. The award was presented at my graduation ceremony in November. I very much hope my experience encourages others to start their housing studies supported by CIH.'
And finally?
'As a Chelsea season ticketholder, I had to balance working on my assignments with visiting Stamford Bridge to watch my team play football - but clearly it worked!'