STAFF ARE HUMBLE about what they do for Clyde Valley Housing Association yet they change lives by giving people a safe, warm home. The registered social landlord, in Motherwell, North Lanarkshire, credits its modest team with its success in "creating communities for the future" through the "immense" level of back-up they offer customers. "They are more than just providing houses. They play the role of social worker, family member, teacher, mediator and friend," says the association. They offer much needed support at the right time, it adds. The team of 57 employees feels well looked after, too, scoring 79% positive, in second place among small organisations, for the Wellbeing factor. There is a gym on site and a popular staff running club, born out of the success of a team entry in a local six-mile (10km) charity run. Managers make excellent role models, say staff, (78%, in third place), and motivate them to give their best every day (74%, fifth). They are confident that their managers would be quick to respond should they show signs of too much pressure (80%, third). Tom Barclay, the chief executive, eats with his staff every day and has introduced the Chief Executive's Birthday Stars to get to know everyone better. He and the chairman divide the staff into star signs and take a group out for an informal lunch every two months. Employees have great faith in his leadership (85%, in eighth place). Established in 1996, the housing association has invested more than £125m in developing 1,500 new homes and £40m in maintaining existing stock. Staff are happy with their pay and benefits (78%) and say their package is fair for their responsibilities (73%). Both are top 10 scores. www.cvha.co.uk
