We are incredibly proud to announce that, for the third year running, Salutem has been recognised as one of the UK and Ireland’s leading employers after securing a place in the Top 10 of the Inspiring Workplaces Awards 2026.
We were ranked tenth overall in the UK and Ireland, rising from 23rd place last year, and were also named one of six winners in the Large Business category. We also received the Best in Class leadership accolade, which recognises the strength of our leadership culture and the commitment we have to supporting our colleagues.
The judges praised Salutem’s achievements in one of the UK’s most challenging industries, shining a light on our sustained investment in colleagues and measurable improvements across the business.
In their feedback, the judges said: “Few entries carry the emotional weight of this one. Operating in one of the UK’s most challenging workforce environments, achieving Top Employer status for three successive years, reducing turnover from 33% to 22%, and maintaining 87% Good or Outstanding regulatory outcomes is a powerful testament to a people strategy that genuinely works.”
The judging panel also recognised the strong connection between our values and workplace culture noting that: “Salutem Care and Education presents a strong example of how a clear social purpose can shape culture, leadership and employee experience across a complex and demanding sector. The organisation’s mission to empower people with complex needs is clearly embedded in both the services it delivers and the way colleagues are supported to do their work. What stands out is the clear link between values, leadership behaviours and measurable workforce outcomes.”
We were also commended for our continued focus on developing future talent and creating opportunities for progression within the organisation, the accolade saying: “Structured leadership development pathways, apprenticeships and internal progression demonstrate a genuine commitment to growing talent across the organisation.”
Explore more about these career pathways here
John Godden MBE, CEO said: “To be recognised once again by Inspiring Workplaces, and to achieve a top 10 ranking across the UK and Ireland, is an outstanding achievement for everyone across Salutem.
“This recognition reflects the culture our colleagues have helped create and the commitment they show every day in supporting the people we work with.
“We have worked hard to ensure Salutem is an organisation where people feel valued, supported and able to develop their careers, and it is particularly pleasing to see our leadership approach recognised nationally.
“While we are proud of the progress we have made, we remain focused on continuing to improve and ensuring we provide the best possible environment for both colleagues and the people we support.”
This achievement is something we are incredibly proud of, and it reflects the passion, dedication and care shown by our colleagues every single day. It is their commitment to creating positive environments and supporting the people we work with that makes recognitions like this possible.
While reaching the Top 10 is a fantastic milestone, we see it as part of a much wider journey. We will continue to listen, learn and invest in our people, ensuring Salutem remains a place where colleagues feel valued, supported and inspired to grow.
