This prestigious recognition came after the organisation entered the awards aiming to capture the voices of its employees and gain insights into the unique perspectives on organisational culture through a comprehensive 26-question anonymous survey.

Developed by a group of behavioural scientists, data analysts, psychologists, business leaders, and academics, the survey gauges organisations across six crucial domains: reward and recognition, information sharing, empowerment, wellbeing, instilling pride, and job satisfaction.

The findings underscored a profound sense of pride and contentment among The Cinnamon Trust’s staff, as evidenced by an impressive 82% average happiness score, an 83% rating for job satisfaction, a remarkable 90% score in pride regarding their work, and an 88% confidence rating in the management team. The data also revealed that the charity has an exceptionally low wellbeing risk index of 9%, significantly surpassing the industry standard of 40%.

Patrick Williams, CEO of The Cinnamon Trust, expressed:

“Being acknowledged on the Sunday Times Best Places To Work in 2024 list is truly heartwarming, and is above all a recognition from my colleagues that work isn’t just a duty, but a place where they find security, joy, and purpose.”

“As an organisation, we’ve witnessed tremendous growth over the past decades, continuously striving to enhance both our service and workplace. This glowing report reaffirms that we’re on the right path. It’s incredibly encouraging to see because cultivating a nurturing environment within can only translate into a better experience for all, thereby reflecting in the work we do” he added.

Cinnamon Trust Patron, Dame Virginia McKenna, also extended her warm wishes to the staff:

“My warmest congratulations to all the staff at The Trust on receiving this very special Award from the Sunday Times. It is so deserved.”

To secure a spot on the list, each company had to meet a minimum response rate based on its size and garner a workforce rating of over 70%. Although the final listing is determined by an engagement score average, a highly engaged workplace must perform well in all six areas.

Some of the things that The Trust established across the years that have contributed to the positive employee feedback are flexi days in addition to annual leave, dog friendly workplace, wellbeing events (sound bath, yoga, choir), professional development opportunities, fun team activities, discounted pet food, and a generous 5% pension contribution.