Tributes paid to ‘utterly inspiring’ former CIH president following death

Former Chartered Institute of Housing president Steve Benson has died.

Benson, who was involved in the housing sector for nearly 40 years, passed away on Sunday following a battle with cancer.

Benson chaired policy and professional development boards at CIH and was president in 2008/09. In his long career he worked for numerous social landlords, including as group services director at Aster Group and before that as managing director of Aster subsidiary Testway Housing.

He was chief executive of housing charity Two Saints from 2014 to 2023. His non-executive roles include chairing Croydon Churches Housing Association and serving on the board of charity Homeless Link.

In February, despite his advancing illness, Benson attended the CIH Presidential Address and Appeal in London where he was presented with an honorary life fellowship by CIH chair Geraldine Howley, and guest speaker, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.

Paying tribute, Gavin Smart, chief executive of the CIH, said Benson had “such an impact on so many people” working and living in the sector.

Smart said: “Universally liked and admired, self-deprecating - the way he dealt with his illness was utterly inspiring.

“On behalf of my colleagues, past and present, at CIH I’d like to express our sincere condolences to Steve’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“Thank you for everything Steve, you will be sorely missed. “

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Howley said: “Steve was an extremely thoughtful, caring and kind person. He was so passionate and committed to CIH, with his valued contributions making a positive difference to the housing sector.

“Steve was a source of inspiration, and his legacy will live on in the work we do. My thoughts are with Steve’s family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”