A new Certificate Qualification in Supporting Homeless People has been launched by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH).

It is the first ever such qualification for people working within the homeless sector in Northern Ireland.

Working in partnership with Ark Housing Association and First Housing Aid Support Services (FHASS) the new qualification was launched at a special Induction Event at which the first student cohort received details of the new course programme.

The programme starts in January 2011 and following successful completion the students will receive the CIH Accredited Qualification Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Homeless People.

Speaking at the event Tony Ruddy Chief Executive of Ark Housing Association said: "I am delighted that CIH have been able to establish this new qualification and to be associated with the very first launch of this programme in Northern Ireland.

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"This is a fantastic opportunity for everyone in the housing, statutory and voluntary sectors who are working with homelessness. It will provide benefits for the organisation and individuals, improving organisational capacity and service delivery as well as enhancing individuals' learning through key skills improvement, expert knowledge and an accredited qualification.

"Undoubtedly this will ensure that we can continue to improve our homeless services delivery to those that really matter, our service users."

"We are looking forward to working with CIH and our colleagues in FHASS on this programme and would encourage other employers in the homeless sector to consider supporting this new qualification for their staff."

Lorraine Lambert, Chairperson of the Learning and development team for FHASS, stated: "We at FHASS are delighted to join Ark Housing Association in this innovative course being run by CIH.

"This exciting new course will enable our staff to update their knowledge base ensuring that our clients receive the right support and advice by a trained professional."

(CD)