Victoria, the Wellbeing/Business Manager and Wellbeing Champion at Chaddlewood Preschool, has sparked positivity within her team! Recognising that her staff members felt underappreciated due to limited workplace benefits, a common challenge in charitable organisations, Victoria took action to lift their spirits. The impact on morale was evident, and Victoria knew that this needed to change.
To counter these feelings and boost motivation, Victoria created an inspiring staff recognition and rewards scheme. This innovative initiative celebrates the commitment and dedication of her colleagues by acknowledging key milestones in their employment. For example, after just one year at Chaddlewood, staff receive a thoughtful gift voucher; after five years, they enjoy a higher-valued voucher and a bouquet of flowers. After ten years, they’re treated to a paid day off and flowers; after fifteen years, they receive both a paid day off and a special voucher, while those with over twenty years of service receive a bespoke gift accompanied by a celebration with the team!
Once the committee gave their approval, Victoria organised a special ‘Gift Giving Day’ where everyone was honoured with their presents, creating an atmosphere of excitement and gratitude. The children at the preschool were involved too, helping to amplify the joy and create a memorable experience for everyone. To ensure fairness, every staff member received a gift based on their last completed milestone. For instance, those with three years of service were given a gift card celebrating their first anniversary—because every achievement counts!
Victoria expressed her delight, saying it was a great day filled with enthusiasm and appreciation, “These gifts will continue to be distributed with much enthusiasm when staff members meet their milestones! Early years staff work incredibly hard and are hugely undervalued in society, my aim is to make my team feel that their hard work is recognised and their dedication rewarded.”
A huge thank you to Victoria for sharing and implementing such an uplifting wellbeing initiative! It’s a brilliant reminder of the importance of recognition and appreciation in fostering a thriving team atmosphere.
