The management of the organisation responsible for most of Hertsmere's social housing this week claimed that staff morale had improved since the publication of a highly critical report.

The report about Ridgehill Housing Association, commissioned by the association itself, identified a "culture of intimidation and fear" within its workforce of more than 160 people.

However, the consultants carried out their investigations in January, and Ridgehill says there have since been discussions with union representatives to resolve staff complaints.

An indication of the gravity of the problems which were faced by Ridgehill was given in December when its chief executive and chairman agreed to step down under union pressure.

Ridgehill was subsequently ordered by the social housing regulator to join a housing group, which it will do later this year.

Hopefully, with this change in structure, and the appointment of a new chief executive this week, Ridgehill has written the final words of a very unhappy chapter of its history.

We wish the new chief executive, Lily Smith, the very best of good fortune in bringing stability to an organisation which bears such a heavy weight of responsibility in our community.

July 4, 2002 10:00