Workplace Wellbeing Award 2026
Recognising organisations and leaders who prioritise staff wellbeing, retention and support
This award celebrates organisations or leaders who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to creating a positive, supportive and sustainable working environment within social care.
It recognises those who actively prioritise staff wellbeing, promote workforce resilience, and implement meaningful initiatives that improve morale, retention and overall workplace culture. Judges will look for clear evidence that wellbeing is embedded in organisational values and everyday practice.
Eligibility
- Open to care organisations, services or individual leaders within the social care sector
- Must demonstrate a sustained commitment to workplace wellbeing over a minimum of 12 months
Criteria
Commitment to Staff Wellbeing
- Clear and visible commitment to physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing
- Policies and practices that support work-life balance
- Access to wellbeing support (e.g. counselling, supervision, peer support, mental health resources)
- Proactive approaches to reducing stress and burnout
Positive Workplace Culture
- Promotes respect, inclusion and psychological safety
- Encourages open communication and staff feedback
- Recognises and values staff contributions
- Demonstrates zero tolerance of bullying, discrimination or harassment
Retention and Workforce Stability
- Effective recruitment and retention strategies
- Evidence of improved staff retention or workforce stability
- Clear career pathways and investment in training and development
Leadership and Support (for leadership nominations)
- Compassionate, values-led leadership
- Regular, meaningful supervision and support
- Visible and accessible leadership
- Responsive to staff needs and wellbeing concerns
Innovation in Wellbeing Support
- Introduces innovative and sustainable wellbeing initiatives
- Implements creative solutions to workforce challenges
- Offers flexible working models or supportive employment practices
- Builds partnerships that enhance staff support and development
Measurable Impact
- Demonstrates tangible improvements such as:
- Increased retention or workforce stability
- Improved performance or morale
- Reduced sickness absence or burnout
Submission Requirements
- Nominations must not exceed 500 words
- Completed forms should be submitted to Administrator@espic.co.uk
How it Works
Nominations will be reviewed by an independent Awards Panel.
The panel will shortlist three finalists. One winner and two highly commended awards will be announced on the night. In the event of a tie, the Head Judge will have the casting vote.
All nominators will be informed of the outcome.
The Awards Panel is made up of three independent judges.