Resources » Latest Blogs
Apr 30, 2024

Care worker appreciation: The importance of rewards and recognition in social care

Making your care team feel valued

care-worker-appreciation

In any workplace, expressing appreciation towards co-workers is crucial in maintaining a productive and positive environment. Even a small gesture such as saying 'thank you' for a job well done can significantly boost morale and motivation. Publicly acknowledging someone's hard work and contribution in a meeting, for example, can boost their confidence and inspire others to strive for excellence. 

 

Why is employee recognition important in social care?

When it comes to adult social care, it is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the hard work and dedication of care workers who consistently provide care and support to vulnerable older adults. We need to recognise the impact that care workers have on our lives and our loved ones' lives. Our care homes are filled with dedicated and hard-working care professionals who have made significant sacrifices to improve the quality of life of others.

care-worker-appreciation

Moreover, retaining care workers continues to be one of the major challenges faced by care organisations. Acknowledging care workers' contributions makes them feel valued and motivates them to do their best. It's also an effective way to retain talented staff and prevent high staff turnover rates that can negatively affect the quality of care for those in care.

One of the most common reasons care workers quit and leave the sector is the lack of appreciation. 

According to Sona, a workforce software company that surveyed 500 UK health and social care employees: 

  • More than 2 in 5 health and social care employees have left their jobs because they didn't feel valued, costing thousands of pounds each to replace.
  • Over 20% say they rarely, or almost never, feel their work is appreciated.
  • 77% want recognition from their employer, but only 21% say this happens regularly.

 

Building a culture of recognition: It's time to change the story around care

As a care provider, if you want to get the best out of your care team and improve employee job satisfaction and morale, it is essential to show your care staff that you acknowledge and value their contributions. 

 

There are many ways to show 'care worker appreciation'. One approach gaining popularity in the social care sector is participating in recognition awards and awareness weeks, such as the Champions of Care Awards or the GladtoCare awareness week, both run by Person Centred Software. 

These initiatives, which are both free to participate in, not only significantly boost the confidence of your care staff and increase employee loyalty, but they also help to create a more positive work environment, set up your organisation for long-term success and allow those working in social care to receive the praise they deserve. 

 

What is the GladtoCare awareness week?

Being there for the people who take care of your loved ones

Get ready to mark your calendars because GladtoCare Awareness Week is just around the corner, from 20th May to 24th May! 

This annual event, organised by Person Centred Software, aims to boost the morale of care staff, show appreciation for their hard work and dedication, which often receives very little public recognition, and raise awareness about the importance of the work they do.

gladtocare.comhs-fshubfsG2C Heart icon-Apr-30-2024-08-49-43-5603-AM

It's also a great opportunity to give a shout-out to all the amazing care staff working tirelessly behind the scenes and making a real difference in people's lives every day! Furthermore, the event is full of competitions and prizes to add to the fun.

Click here to learn more, get involved and receive your free GladtoCare toolkit.

What are the Champions of Care Awards?

The Champions of Care awards, sponsored by Person Centred Software, are designed to celebrate and recognise the incredible work happening in health and social care and give everyone the chance to thank others.

The awards are divided into four categories, with each winner receiving a prize: 

Making a Difference

making-a-difference

Celebrating individuals who have made a significant impact on a resident.

Digital Innovation

digital-innovation

Recognising the achievement of individuals who have introduced transformative technologies that revolutionised service delivery.

Special Recognition

special-recognition

Celebrating the positive impact someone within social care has made on the life of an individual currently in a health and social care setting.

 

Great Leader

 

great-leader

 

Recognising and appreciating an individual who has demonstrated exceptional skills in leadership, provided unwavering support, and offered invaluable guidance through challenging times. 

You can find the winners of this year's Champions of Care Awards here

Stay tuned for more information on next year's awards, which will begin in early 2025.

 

Building a culture of recognition: It's time to change the story around care

Acknowledging and appreciating the hard work and dedication of care workers is crucial. Discover the best ways to show 'care worker appreciation'. 

 

April 30, 2024

Other Blogs