Recovery Connections wins Investors in People Employer of the Year award

Regional charity, Recovery Connections, has received a notable accolade at this year’s Investors in People Awards. Bringing the Third Sector Employer of the Year trophy back to the North East marks a wonderful achievement for the longstanding Lived Experience Recovery Organisation, headquartered in Middlesbrough.

Considered alongside a shortlist of nine other charities, this national, annual award is based largely on feedback from staff within Investors in People (IIP) accredited organisations. Personnel within the team are interviewed, and asked to judge the employer based on a set of key criteria, including Leadership, Creating Sustainable Success, Empowering and Involving People, and Delivering Continuous Improvement.

Recovery Connections scored above the charity sector average, and national IIP average, in each of the 10 IIP categories, and subsequently qualified for the initial sifting phase of the judging process. The charity then completed a further nomination process and, along with other finalists, were invited to attend the finals at the Old Billingsgate venue, close to the Tower of London.

Investors in People is an internationally recognised accreditation for people management and employee wellbeing, with almost 60,000 organisations assessed for accreditation over several years. Ultimately, what IIP looks for is employers who put people first, for the benefit of every person in the workplace, in order to create a stronger, healthier and happier society.

Receiving the award on the night itself were CEO Dot Smith, Finance Manager Kathryne Arnold, and Regional Service Manager, Lynsey Todd, all members of the Senior Leadership Team at the charity.

Dot said: “We are an organisation that has grown from just three members of the recovery community, in Middlesbrough, to more than 130 people across the region. 90% of our staff have Lived Experience of recovery from addiction, and use this invaluable knowledge to support 1000’s of others into recovery.”

“A people first approach to our staff, and the many dozens of ambassadors and volunteers who also dedicate time to our work, has always been front and centre of our workplace culture, and senior-level strategic decision-making. Achieving Investors in People accreditation, alongside being able to secure new contracts and extend our support across the region, is an outstanding achievement at all levels of the charity.” 

“This award not only amplifies the work we do, but demonstrates the paramount importance of putting the people who make the work possible, at its core.”

Paul Devoy, CEO of Investors in People, added: “Congratulations to Recovery Connections on this well-deserved recognition in The Investors in People Awards 2024. Their commitment to lead, support and improve not only the organisation, but their people too, truly makes them a standout employer, and one to watch in their industry.”

“This award reflects not only the hard work and dedication of the entire team but also their passion for building a supportive and thriving workplace culture. At Investors in People, we are proud to celebrate organisations that strive to Make Work Better.”