Time to say ‘Thank You’ – the power of these two words to employees

Every organisation wants a motivated workforce, strong culture and a reputation for doing the right thing. But one of the simplest tools to achieve this is often overlooked: saying thank you.

Recognition matters. When employees feel valued for what they do, it strengthens their connection to their work, their colleagues and the organisation they represent. Research shows that 82% of employees are happier when recognised at work, and organisations with recognition programmes see significantly higher engagement and lower absenteeism.

That’s why the Microhive Awards exist. Each year we celebrate the organisations that are building a culture of generosity and purpose through workplace giving. And today we’re delighted to announce that the Microhive Awards 2026 are officially open for entries.

Why recognition matters more than ever
In a fast-moving world of work, employees increasingly want to feel that their work has meaning beyond the day-to-day job. Purpose-driven benefits, those that connect people to something bigger than themselves are becoming a powerful way for employers to support wellbeing and engagement.

Recognition is a key part of this. Studies show:

• 91% of employees say recognition motivates them to work harder.
• Employees who receive consistent recognition are 2.3 times more likely to be engaged at work.
• Nearly three-quarters of employees say more recognition would improve workplace wellbeing.

Put simply: when people feel appreciated, they feel connected. Workplace giving schemes like Microhive create a powerful opportunity to do exactly that. When organisations celebrate the collective generosity of their staff, they acknowledge not just individual contributions but a shared sense of purpose.

Why the Awards matter for employers
The Microhive Awards are more than recognition, they’re a signal of a a commitment to social change. Award-winning organisations receive the Microhive Impact Award, which can be used in ESG reporting and stakeholder communications to demonstrate their commitment to social impact.

For employers, the Awards highlight:

• A culture that values generosity and community
• A purpose-driven benefit that supports employee wellbeing
• Tangible impact delivered for charities and communities
• A commitment to responsible business practices

In an era where employees, customers and investors increasingly care about social impact, these signals matter.

Celebrating success: highlights from the 2025 Microhive Awards
Last year was a record-breaking year for the Microhive Awards, with more winners than at any time in the past decade. The 2025 Awards showcased the growing momentum of micro-giving across sectors including finance, healthcare, retail and the public sector.

Platinum Award Winners (40%+ participation)
Nine organisations achieved Platinum status, including ALDI GB, B Braun, LV=, Motor Insurers’ Bureau, and South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.

Gold Award Winners
A diverse group of organisations reached over 20% staff participation, including National Grid, Mencap, Sanofi, STV Group, and several NHS trusts.

Silver and Bronze Winners
Dozens more organisations, from global banks to universities and local authorities demonstrated how small acts of generosity can unite teams and make a meaningful difference for charity partners.

Across all participating organisations, staff contributions have helped charities receive £9 million in donations, demonstrating the incredible power of collective action. A particularly exciting trend last year was the growth of Microhive across the NHS, where staff donations have already exceeded £1.9 million, helping NHS charities fund services that go beyond what public budgets can provide.

Looking ahead to the 2026 Awards
The Microhive movement continues to grow, with more employers discovering the power of micro-giving to unite their people around a shared purpose. The 2026 Microhive Awards will once again celebrate the organisations leading the way in workplace generosity. If your organisation runs Microhive, this is your opportunity to:

• Recognise the generosity of your employees and pensioners
• Celebrate the difference your organisation is making
• Demonstrate your social purpose to stakeholders
• Inspire even more colleagues to get involved

Most importantly, the Awards are a chance to say a heartfelt thank you to the people whose everyday generosity makes all of this possible.
Because when people come together to give just a few pennies, they create something much bigger: a culture of kindness, connection and collective impact.

To enter the Awards please email info@microhive.org.uk by 07/04/2026. Winners will be announced on 21/04/2026.