A DOWN-TO-EARTH BOSS who is happy to get her hands dirty and does not ask anyone to do something she wouldn't do herself leads the Mayday Trust. Caroline Ward, the charity's chief executive, regularly consults staff and they say she inspires them (76%, a positive score ranked 16th among small organisations). Employees also feel she runs the trust on sound moral principles (82%, the 20th highest result). The senior management team undertakes back-to-the-floor days and operates an open-door policy. Consequently, staff have confidence in the leadership skills of senior managers (76%). Mayday supports people who have difficulties with everyday living and manages housing schemes across Warwickshire, Northamptonshire and Bedfordshire. It makes full use of its employees' skills (63%, a score bettered by only one other small organisation), and it doesn't take advantage of staff (72%, and fifth). Everyone is treated fairly (69%). There is free private healthcare for all and discounted gym membership. Staff say they are happy with the balance between their work and home life (75%, the 11th best rating). Managers monitor the working hours of staff and these hours are reported to the human resources department each week and reviewed. People feel that managers take an active interest in their wellbeing (81%) and would be quick to respond if they showed signs of being under too much pressure (75%), both top 10 scores. Employees do not feel that they are spending too much time working (68%) or that their jobs interfere with responsibilities at home (76%), both eighth best scores. Mayday had its best category score for Wellbeing questions, with a factor score of 70%, placed 24th. Staff do not feel they are under so much pressure that they cannot concentrate (74%) and reported few stress-related symptoms in the past 12 months (71%). Departments and teams work well together (59%, the fifth highest result) to provide a great service for clients (87%). maydaytrust.org.uk
