On 28 February, we launched the ‘Big Conversation’ sessions – a series of discussions around each theme of the NHS People Promise which make up the topics of the Staff Survey.

The sessions are about issues that matter to you. Our aim is to get to the heart of what our staff think would make the biggest difference. Our third topic held on the 5 May focused on ‘Recognition and Reward’ and was hosted by non executive director Simon Holmes.

A big thank you to everyone who came along to the session. We really valued hearing your thoughts and ideas. 

If you missed the session and still want to get involved, there are lots of ways you can do so.

Catch up with our ‘Recognition and Reward’ recording by clicking here.

Click here to view the slides from this session.

Click here to read the Jamboard feedback from this session.

Once you are caught up, click here to add your feedback and experience with subjects surrounding this theme (i.e. what makes you feel valued and how you give praise to your colleagues), and click here to feedback on how we could improve the sessions going forward.

Some of the key themes that you shared at the session included:

  • Be intentional with recognition 
  • The impact of leaders 
  • Regular check-ins 
  • Signposting to benefits 

Click on the accordions below to find out more.

Colleagues shared how much they value being recognised by both their managers and colleagues who take the time to be intentional about showing genuine thanks and recognising when things have gone well. 

It is important to celebrate what is going well just as much as offering constructive feedback. 

It can be challenging if the department does not have the budget to offer rewards but there are several ways to celebrate successes within the team.  

Colleagues highlighted that when managers recognise staff doing well, it encourages them to recognise and celebrate the achievement of others.  

Cascading praise from senior managers to the team can boost morale. 

Recognising achievements in the appraisal process can help to make colleagues feel valued for their hard work and encourage them to progress.  

Understanding each other's working style preferences in order to provide the most appropriate form of feedback which is meaningful to the individual. 

Requests for leadership training to include information on recognition and reward. 

Colleagues highlighted that they would value regular team check-ins throughout the week to provide an opportunity to connect about both work and non-work-related topics. This was especially valued by colleagues that work from home and may feel disconnected. 

Teams who do have regular check-ins said that they felt more supported by managers. 

Colleagues enjoyed receiving a check-in and recognition from the executive team when they visit departments. 

There were requests to share information on what is available for HHFT staff in terms of recognition and reward both internally and externally on Trustnet, so it is easy to find.  

There were suggestions for ideas such as a thank you coffee, gift voucher. 

A clearer rewards programme which recognises all staff including clinical and non-clinical staff. For example, national awards such as team leader of the year award. 

Staff really enjoyed the drinks bottles, trolley with treats, plants and the ice cream van. 

Actions

We have set up a Trustnet page for easy access to NHS staff benefits but in the meantime please see below.

Blue Light Card Registration - £4.99 for 2 years access to official discounts from large national retailers to local businesses in a wide range of categories including holidays, cars, days out, fashion, gifts, insurance, phones and much more!

NHS Discounts for Staff, Friends & Family - Use online or in store (nhsdiscountoffers.co.uk)

Bike to work scheme - The Trust now uses Green Commute Initiative (GCI) for our bike to work scheme, which allows you to purchase a bike and accessories for your commute to work, up to the value of £5000, tax free. 

Car salary sacrifice scheme - Zenith Car Scheme Company password: NHSSS011 

  • Email us your success stories of where recognition and reward works well in your area at organisationaldevelopment@hhft.nhs.uk and we can share it across HHFT. For example, the apprenticeships team celebrate colleagues with a monthly member of the team award. 
  • Back to the floor Fridays – our exec team would love to come and visit your department and meet the staff in your team. Please get in touch with the management offices if you would like to arrange a visit. 
  • We are increasing the prominence of recognitions schemes for new starters and managers. 
  • Connect with your line manager to explore what options might be available to recognise staff e.g., a coffee voucher. 
  • Use the ABC of appreciation model – successful teams experience five times more appreciation than critical feedback. Click here to view it. 
  • WOW awards click here to nominate someone. 
  • Thank-you cards, please email us at organisationaldevelopment@hhft.nhs.uk if you would like some. Click here to view them. 
  • Thank you Thursday on the HHFT Staff Facebook page. 
  • Share thanks from outside the team, with your team so that achievements are recognised. 
  • Check-in regularly with your team and have protected time in meeting agendas to celebrate staff and their successes. 
  • The wellbeing team are reinvigorating the home workers forum as a place to connect and stay informed about self-care. 

There are lots of ways you can get involved in our Big Conversation going forward, please email us at culturechange@hhft.nhs.uk if you would like to take part, we would love to hear from you.