THE WEST COUNTRY is known for being rich in natural beauty, but it also has some of the most economically rundown areas of the country — which is where the South West Regional Development Agency comes in. One of nine regional development agencies, the Exeter-based body was set up in 1999 to create jobs, make businesses more profitable and help to bring down carbon emissions. Agency staff appreciate that an average annual salary of £34,782 goes a long way in this part of the UK, earning their employer second place across all organisations in this list with a 70% positive score for providing a Fair Deal. They are also the happiest of any at mid-sized organisations when it comes to pay and benefits (78%). Their income is a good reflection of their duties (68%, and another top score) and staff are paid fairly relative to people in comparable jobs elsewhere (69%) and in light of what colleagues receive (64%). They are proud that the agency makes a difference to the world (76%, ranking fourth) and does its best for the environment (75%, the second highest score), and for local communities (56%). The agency has a top 10 rating for Wellbeing (63%). Employees are not in the habit of coming home exhausted (50% and the fourth best score), do not experience stress too often (70%) and their health does not suffer (75%). www.southwestrda.org.uk
