Rewards and recognition help employees feel appreciated for their contributions and helps them connect their values with their organisations values. Whilst Rewards are tangible and will bring a benefit to the employee, recognition is intangible and is more about acknowledging and appreciating an employee’s efforts and contributions (CIPD 2022). It can be verbal praise, a thank you note, or a public acknowledgement during a meeting.

Recognition, when delivered well can lead to improvements in people’s physical health and emotional wellbeing. When you express gratitude towards another person it can improve their life satisfaction.

Leaders can embed a culture of recognition by role modelling positive recognition behaviours. Examples might include:

· Being visible and thanking staff at all levels every day for specific work or contributions.

· Creating mechanisms where staff can thank one another.

· Setting aside time on meeting agendas for recognition.

· Writing to staff at key work milestones, new starters within the first month and then when staff hit a 10 year milestone etc.

· Compliments, gratitude, private notes or emails, public awards or publication of their achievements in newsletters.

People’s experiences and preferences around recognition are subjective and diverse. Introverts my not value public displays or recognition as much as extroverts- be aware of this and ask your staff how they would like to be recognised for their work (NHS England 2025).

At NHS Grampian, we recognise and value our workforce. Their dedication, compassion, and expertise make a profound difference in the lives of our patients, families, and communities every day. To show our appreciation, we have developed a comprehensive Rewards & Recognition Programme that celebrates the outstanding contributions of all our staff. Why don’t you take the opportunity to nominate someone now Rewards & Recognition

 

Further reading

Employee recognition and non-financial rewards: an evidence review - scentific summary

NHS England » Staff recognition framework

Published: 10/06/2025 12:03