Celebrating years of service

A sustainable approach to employee recognition

In collaboration with HR colleagues, a strategy was implemented to determine eligibility, which ensured fairness and consistency for such a large cohort of employees on various contract terms and conditions. A clear criteria was established to enable colleagues to understand and anticipate when they would be eligible for their pin badge. The specific milestones were set out as follows:

• One year of service
• Two years of service
• Five years of service
• Ten years of service
• Exceptional long service (10 years and more)

Time was taken to consider how the campaign may be received by colleagues, along with working through some of the potential issues that may arise, in particular, colleagues primarily identifying with their NHS long service. HCRG Care Group demonstrated a proactive approach, implementing a comprehensive communications plan so that colleagues understood the purpose and benefits of the campaign clearly.

Using business savings to fund the project was a cost effective and resourceful approach in the current financial climate. With a cost of approximately £3 per person, it demonstrated that a meaningful recognition doesn’t always require large investment but can still deliver a significant impact on colleague’s morale and engagement.

In line with the organisations green plan, it was important that this initiative maximised sustainability as best as it could. We balanced sustainability with cost-effectiveness, sourcing sustainable materials, along with distribution of the incentive with minimal waste.

Celebrating colleagues' service

The campaign was primarily aimed at colleagues who had been directly employed by us for up to two years, to boost retention of that cohort of staff, however it was recognised that it was just as important to celebrate HCRG Care Group’s long-term colleagues.

• There was a rise of 18% from June 2022-April 2023 in colleagues recommending HCRG Care Group as a place to work
• 90% aware of colleagues were aware of the organisation’s purpose and values Jun 2022, whereas this rose to 94% following the campaign in April 2023

These statistics provide insight into the perception and awareness of HCRG Care Group as a workplace, as well as the understanding of the company’s purpose and values.

Colleague feedback and the impact

Following the initial launch, collecting feedback through partnership forums was a valuable step in ensuring the recognition initiatives align with colleagues needs and preferences. Here are some examples of the feedback received.

“I have received my badge and thought it was a lovely gesture having HCRG acknowledge and show gratitude for the work that we do! Thank You HCRG Care :-)” 

“I received my 10 year badge yesterday and am very grateful for the appreciation, it is little thanks like this that make the difference so thanks again.”

“I received my exceptional long service badge in the post last week. What a lovely idea. Thank you so much, hugely appreciated”

“Thank you for my two year badge, looking forward to getting my five year badge next!”

Ultimately, implementing this initiative has created a tangible and visible symbol of recognition that staff can proudly wear, ultimately fostering a sense of belonging. The pins serve as a reminder of their achievements and the organisations appreciation for their loyalty and commitment. Creating years of service pin badges was a wonderful way to honour employees’ milestones and show gratitude.