Putting employee voice at the heart of change
WCHG transformed employee engagement by embracing Hive, resulting in stronger trust, higher engagement, and even award recognition.
Housing Association
250 - 500 Employees
The overview
Before Hive, WCHG had conducted employee surveys for several years, using free forms and reporting in excel format. Hive’s platform offered a solution that was easy for employees to access and engage in the survey. Employees continued to get the reassurance that their feedback was confidential, and managers could get access to insights quicker.
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Why WCHG chose Hive
Before Hive, WCHG had been conducting employee surveys but found that the process wasn’t as accessible or engaging as it could be. Employees needed reassurance that their feedback was confidential, and managers needed quicker access to insights.
“Hive came highly recommended by a colleague, and from the moment we saw it, we knew it was different. It’s simple, easy to use, and lets us reach all our people, whether they’re in the office, out in the field, or working remotely,” – Kristen Hardicre, Senior HR Business Partner
The instant availability of survey results was another key factor in WCHG’s decision. “Before Hive, we’d be waiting ages for survey data to be compiled. Now, we get insights straight away, which means we can act fast.” – Kristen Hardicre, Senior HR Business Partner
Using Hive’s Surveys to drive change
To better understand employee needs, WCHG launches regular engagement surveys through Hive, focusing on key areas like workplace culture, wellbeing, leadership, and communication. These surveys provide a structured way to gather honest feedback, identify trends, and measure progress over time.
But WCHG doesn’t just collect data, they make sure to act on it. With Hive, they introduced several key initiatives that help them turn insights into action:
- Tailored engagement strategy: Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, WCHG uses Hive’s survey data to understand specific challenges within different teams and respond accordingly.
- Real-time feedback & reporting: Managers gain access to instant reports, making it easier to track engagement trends and take immediate action.
- Increased accessibility: Employees can participate in surveys using their mobile devices, removing barriers to engagement.
- Ongoing communication: Regular updates and reminders, including SMS messages, help drive participation and create a culture of transparency.
- Managerial involvement: By empowering managers with access to insights, WCHG encourages ownership of engagement at all levels of the business.
“These elements really shifted the way we approach engagement. It wasn’t just about running surveys—it was about using the data to drive meaningful change.” – Laura Heron, Head of People
The role of People Science in engagement success
To better understand employee needs, WCHG launches regular engagement surveys through Hive, focusing on key areas like workplace culture, wellbeing, leadership, and communication. These surveys provide a structured way to gather honest feedback, identify trends, and measure progress over time.
But WCHG doesn’t just collect data, they make sure to act on it. With Hive, they introduced several key initiatives that help them turn insights into action:
Survey design and strategy:
Hive People Science works closely with WCHG to develop tailored survey questions, ensuring they capture the most valuable insights.
Executive insight reviews:
WCHG’s leadership and managers attended sessions led by Hive’s People Science team, helping them interpret results and understand key drivers of engagement.
Advanced data analysis:
Using regression analysis, Hive’s People Scientists help WCHG identify which factors had the biggest impact on employee engagement, making it easier to prioritise initiatives.
Embedding a data-driven approach:
Through ongoing guidance, Hive’s People Scientists help WCHG shift how they discuss and act on engagement data, embedding a culture of evidence-based decision-making across the organisation.
“The insight and expertise from Hive’s People Science team have been invaluable. They’ve helped us not only understand our data better but also use it to create real change within our organisation.” – Laura Heron, Head of People
Measurable improvements in engagement
Since adopting Hive, WCHG has seen notable improvements:
*Increased from 7.9 in 2023 to 8.1 in 2024
*The category to see the highest improvement, rising by 0.3 points (8.1 to 8.4)
*Increased from +36pt to +44pt
One of the biggest shifts has been how WCHG uses data. Previously, results were compiled in Excel spreadsheets, making analysis and action difficult. Now, managers can access reports instantly, track engagement, and act on feedback in real time.
“This business loves a bit of competition. Being able to track engagement levels and nudge teams to participate has created excitement around our surveys.” – Laura Heron, Head of People
Turning insights into action
WCHG has used Hive’s insights to shape key initiatives, particularly in health and wellbeing. As a result, the organisation achieved Investors in People Gold accreditation, reflecting its commitment to employee support and wellbeing.
“The survey helped us sharpen our focus. Instead of guessing what employees needed, we had clear, data-backed insights to drive meaningful improvements.” – Laura Heron, Head of People
Hive has also played a crucial role in supporting WCHG’s wider business transformation. “We’re making big changes as a business, and the survey has helped us check in with our people along the way, making sure they feel supported and heard.” explained Laura.
Award-winning engagement
WCHG’s focus on employee engagement has led to external recognition, with the organisation winning:
- Northern Housing Award for Excellence in Company Culture & Employee Development
- Women in Housing & Housing Hero Awards – Employer of the Year
“These awards reflect the journey we’ve been on to cultivate a strong, values-led culture. It’s a testament to the collective effort of our teams, and Hive has played a key role in helping us measure and maintain this progress.”– Laura Heron, Head of People
What’s next for WCHG and Hive?
WCHG plans to expand its use of Hive by introducing Pulse surveys, allowing for more frequent and targeted feedback. “As we continue evolving, we want to stay connected to our people. Pulse surveys will help us gather feedback on specific changes, making sure we’re always moving in the right direction,” says Laura.
The organisation is also exploring ways to integrate Hive data into Power BI dashboards, enhancing transparency and accessibility. “We already share our results widely, but this would take it to the next level—giving even more people access to insights and making sure employee voice is always part of our decision-making,” added Kristen.
Looking at the wider context of the housing sector, WCHG recognises the importance of ensuring that colleagues are equipped to deliver the high standards of professionalism, competency, and conduct required. “We have great colleagues in this business, and it’s crucial we continue to invest in them as future demands evolve. This means making sure they’re supported with the right tools, like Hive, to continuously improve,” – Laura Heron
By embracing Hive, WCHG has created a culture where employee voice is heard and acted upon, leading to tangible business improvements and a thriving workplace culture.
“Our colleagues are the heart of what we do. With Hive, we’ve made sure they have a voice—and that we’re always listening.” – Laura Heron
Who is WCHG
Wythenshawe Community Housing Group (WCHG) is a community-focused organisation providing affordable housing and related services. They work across Wythenshawe, offering initiatives for tenant support, community development, and local services, including repairs, safety, and social welfare. The group is committed to improving the lives of local residents, prioritising inclusivity, and delivering social value through various programs.
