Government policy focuses increasingly on supporting local government to direct investment and enable services that achieve positive outcomes for people and communities, to work in partnership with citizens and communities, and in particular, those most in need.

Strategic housing authorities and their partners have a critical role to play but the challenge ahead lies in getting the balance right between investment in people and places. This is not just about industry and enterprise - it is about our neighbourhoods, the services we offer people, the opportunities we can create, and the way in which we involve communities in decision making and service shaping.

The fifth Strategic Housing conference run in conjunction with CLG, the Audit Commission and HQN Limited allows us time to debate the future of the strategic housing role, and for those working in the sector to consider how to respond to the challenges ahead.

This one day event will equip delegates with a detailed understanding of the raft of issues facing the sector, and enable them to consider the challenges and opportunities for their own services, organisations, places and people.