A year on, the challenges and opportunities are still very much alive, and so our dialogue continues. It is clear that we need regular engagement with the bigger conversation to stay on the right track and take our sector forward. This year, the trains are running (hopefully!), and we have the opportunity to gather in person at the Royal College of Physicians in London to do just that at the Treasury in Housing Conference 2024.

I’m thrilled to be chairing this year’s conference, and excited to welcome an extraordinary group of attendees. From economists and policymakers to housing association leaders, bankers, investors, and rating agencies, the day promises to be packed with lively discussions, eye-opening insights, and real, actionable takeaways.

The timing of this conference couldn’t be more crucial. We’re meeting as we hit the first 100 days of a new Labour government, at a moment when new policies and potential changes could transform our future landscape. The Chancellor’s anticipated October budget may include an above-inflation rent settlement, which has sparked optimism across the sector. But does this go far enough, and how will it sit alongside government grant funding and private sector finance to drive greater investment in social housing? And with the Prime Minister’s early warning of an “economic black hole”, how much money will the government have to spend – and where will that investment land?

We’ll tackle these issues head-on, starting with our opening plenary, A New Dawn? What Is Our Economic Future Under a New Labour Government?, led by Cara Pacitti (Resolution Foundation) and Rhys Williams (NHF). Their insights will help us gauge the political and economic realities that will shape housing finance in the coming years. Later, Simon Century from L&G Capital will champion the argument for housing to be considered as a part of UK infrastructure—a bold idea that could reshape funding streams. And Homes England’s Shahi Islam will share his vision for financing the future of the sector. It will be interesting to learn why being part of “UK infrastructure” matters and what difference it might make; and whether Homes England thinks the sector’s funding model is in need of reform to help us deliver the new affordable homes the country so desperately needs.

But this conference isn’t just about policy. The role of private finance is just as critical to our future. Lloyd’s David Cleary will share his ambitious plan for funding one million new social rented homes, while we’ll challenge Catherine Raynsford (Hyde) and Chris Jeffs (M&G) to demonstrate how equity might finally make a meaningful impact in our sector and how quickly we might scale it up. And with debt ceilings in sight, it’s time to explore new pathways. James Williams will also present Sero’s innovative model for energy retrofit – and Priya Nair (THFC) and others will take a look at whether we can really take funding off balance sheet…

However innovative we become, debt will remain a core part of our funding landscape. And with a number of issuers now migrating into BBB credit ratings, Emma Turner (Riverside) and Nicola Henry (Canada Life) will ask whether there is a route back to single A, and whether it matters.

We want to broaden the horizon of the conversation, inviting new voices and fresh perspectives to shape the future together. We’ve designed three breakout streams to tailor the experience to your interests. Whether you’re curious about lessons from other sectors, sustainable finance, or developing the treasury capabilities of tomorrow, we’ve got you covered. You’ll hear from Kwok Liu on how he has led treasury teams in the utilities sector at National Grid; and Jonathan Roberts (Vivid) will take us to Europe to explore new investment opportunities. My particular highlight will be to hear from Jamie Ratcliffe and one of SNG’s residents on why we need to place the customer voice at the heart of our treasury work.

Whether you're a seasoned housing treasury veteran or a newcomer to the field or to our sector, the Treasury in Housing 2024 conference will leave you with the insights, tools, and connections to be part of this essential conversation. I can't wait to see you there, where together, we'll work towards a sustainable, innovative, and secure future for social housing.