I won't miss you when you're gone

I was underwhelmed by Darshan Singh Matharoo's letter on the benefits of Chartered Institute of Housing membership (Letters, 25 July, page 20). It was hardly the most dynamic of defences.

For me, the benefit of membership is ascertained by this simple test: would I miss it if I didn't have it?

In the case of the CIH, I'd have to say no. Once upon a time we received the Good Practice Briefings free; now they are £7.50 (plus P&P). Revival of such benefits (or a free training session from the local branches every now and then) may be of more practical use to members than "effective recognition of the housing profession" or recruitment and retention seminars – which, it appears to me, benefit our employers rather than us.

As I can no longer claim membership fees back from my employer, I foresee the end of 14 years' CIH membership rapidly approaching.