Exclusive: 44% of employees want workplace recognition and appreciation
Posted 15th April 2026 • Written by Zoe Wickens on employeebenefits.co.uk • • • • • •
Almost half (44%) of UK employees want recognition and appreciation in the workplace, according to research by mental health training provider Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England.
Its survey of 2,000 UK employees, which explored the current state of psychological safety at work, was released to coincide with the organisation’s My Whole Self campaign, which focuses on workplace culture change and positive transformation in workplace mental health and performance.
The findings also revealed that 44% of respondents wanted support with workloads, while the same proportion wanted leaders who respond to their individual needs.
Two-fifths (42%) said they want regular check-ins, 45% feel unable to speak up when they spot mistakes or risks, and 15% are already making preventable errors as a result.
Sarah McIntosh, chief executive of MHFA England, said: “Our research tells us the things employees value most are already within every employer’s reach. Recognition, regular check-ins, supportive managers, and leaders who listen are the foundations of a high-performing culture, and they aren’t costly benefits to procure.
“For reward and benefits professionals, there’s a significant opportunity. The conversation about what makes a great place to work is shifting. Alongside pay and formal benefits, employees are looking at everyday experience. The organisations that recognise culture as part of their reward strategy will see the returns in performance, engagement, retention, and people who genuinely want to be there. My Whole Self Day is a timely moment to act on that link.”
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