Meaningful Caregiver Recognition

“As most of us are always trying to find ways to practice caregiver recognition, I came upon the idea of putting up a 'clothesline' made of multi-colored heavy embroidery string.  The string was braided and hung on a blank wall.  Also on this wall is a framed poster saying "Wall of Thanks".  Purchased note paper pads –“Together We can Make a Difference,” “You Make the Difference” and the smaller “You Make the Difference Everyday” - were put on a table beneath the display along with colored pencils and multicolored tiny clothespins.  Caregivers were encouraged to write a note of thanks to their fellow caregivers whenever something nice was done.

For example, “Janet, thank you so much for helping sort through my paperwork today.  I really appreciate all of your help.” This type of caregiver recognition is caregiver to caregiver rather than company wide. When the 3 lines have been filled with thank you's, the notes are removed and given to the caregiver’s immediate supervisor or manager. The supervisor or manager will use the notes again at that person's yearly evaluation.  We find this has promoted thoughtfulness and teamwork among the staff.  As a note, we have now changed the paper to leaves for fall and will be using holiday related items when December rolls around.”

- Anonymous