The highways sector depends on attracting, developing and retaining talented people. Across the industry, organisations are introducing initiatives that support employee wellbeing, encourage new talent into the sector and create workplaces where people can thrive.
The 2026 DfT Special Recognition Awards are your opportunity to showcase that work, celebrate your achievements and gain recognition from across the sector when the winners are announced at Strictly Highways 2026.
Could your organisation be recognised for the positive impact it’s having on its people?
Employer Initiative of the Year Award
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The Employer Initiative of the Year Award recognises an outstanding initiative that has demonstrably contributed to supporting the retention of employees and/or encouraged new employees into the sector, possibly demonstrating a wider social value impact.
Whether you’ve introduced a wellbeing programme, developed new career pathways, improved employee engagement or implemented initiatives that support diversity, inclusion or social value, this award recognises organisations that put their people at the heart of everything they do.
Last year’s winner, Wiltshire Council, was recognised for its Wellbeing and Inclusion Programme, which improved employee engagement, attracted diverse talent and created a more inclusive workplace by prioritising mental health, physical wellbeing and inclusion.
The judges said:
“At a time when local authorities face significant challenges with recruitment and retention, Wiltshire have shown how the right initiatives can deliver significant improvements in recruitment, retention and employee satisfaction, whilst also creating a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of its employees and the wider community.”
If your organisation has introduced an initiative that’s helping attract, develop or retain talented people, we’d love to hear about it.
Why Enter?
The DfT Special Recognition Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the work you’re proud of, recognise the people behind it and share your achievements with colleagues from across the highways sector.
- National recognition from peers and the Department for Transport
- Free to enter, with the opportunity to showcase your organisation on a national stage
- Raise your profile and celebrate your team
Deadline to enter: 21 August 2026 at 5pm
Find out more and submit your entry
If your organisation has introduced an initiative that’s making a measurable difference to your people and your workplace, we’d encourage you to put it forward.
The awards will be presented during Strictly Highways 2026, bringing together the highways community to celebrate the outstanding people, projects and innovations shaping the future of our sector.
Find out more and book your place to join us
