2 Why might the issue of trust be particularly important in managing change? In 2002 the British Museum was regarded as being ‘in crisis’ (Edwards, 2005). There had been a downturn in tourism (following the September 11 tragedy) and a considerable reduction in government subsidies. This led to the need to reduce the cost base by £6. 5 million;

135 job losses were planned, and as a result the museum suffered its first strike action in its 250-

year history. After initial headcount reductions, the HR strategy was to re‑establish the values and skills of staff and to challenge the old structure and industrial relations