Differing approaches to Long Service Awards

At a recent Paydata HR Workshop, those in attendance had a very interesting debate about Long Service Awards for employees.

Most organisations have some form of Long Service Award, whether formal or informal. Of course, we see in our benefits surveys that it is common for organisations in all sectors to offer additional annual holiday entitlement for longer service. In particular, for 5, 10 and 15 years’ service, organisations typically offer between two and five days additional holiday than for new starters. Some offer an additional days’ holiday for 5 or 10 years’ service, but for the anniversary year only (rather than ongoing).

One of the most generous examples of additional service is John Lewis Partnership that offers six months paid leave after partners (employees) have been there for 25 years.

Many Long Service Awards take the form of cash. This can vary considerably between organisations, with some offering as little as £50 for every 5 years’ service, through to £1,000 every 5 years. As an alternative to cash, organisations (particularly retailers) offer vouchers.

A number of organisations highlighted some interesting non-cash awards, such as anniversary cakes and balloons, which tick the ‘feeling special’ box more than the monetary box.

The race is on for the next HR Workshop to find the most novel Long Service Award!