Colleagues gathered in Christie’s Bistro to enjoy tea, coffee and pastries and show their appreciation for their friends and peers.

The Appreciation Awards were introduced in November as a way for professional services colleagues to remind each other just how much they are valued and say thank you for anything from supporting their team, working hard on a project or simply just brightening up their day.

The awards complement University-wide reward and recognition schemes already in place, such as Rewarding Exceptional Performance and the Distinguished Achievement Awards.

Colleagues submitted 237 nominations across the Faculty Office teams and, in early January, 139 individual nominees were sent a personalised digital token including the name of their nominator and the message of appreciation.

More than 60 nominees attended the celebration event to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of their peers.

Helen Perkins, Learning Designer, said: “The Faculty Office Appreciation Awards were a great opportunity to let colleagues know how they positively impact on your working practice, or just your day. The informality of the nomination process removed any barriers to reflect on the (often unsung) contribution of colleagues. Receiving nominations was great too – brightened up my inbox and reminded me that the little things we do for each other matter.”

Cristina Nhumaio, Digital Content Creator, said: “The Awards were a fantastic way to recognise and celebrate the hard work of colleagues. It was great to take a moment to appreciate everyone's contributions, and receiving a digital token was a thoughtful touch!”

Congratulations to all nominees!