Celebrating the Best Workplaces in the North East: A Testament to Culture and Employee Wellbeing

This year, 10 North East companies have made headlines by being recognized as some of the UK's Best Workplaces for 2026. This prestigious list, compiled by Great Place to Work, showcases organizations that prioritize employee satisfaction, culture, and inclusion. The recognition is not just an accolade; it reflects the genuine efforts these businesses make to create positive working environments for their staff.

Home Group: A Decade of Excellence

Among the distinguished organizations, Home Group stands out, ranked 17th in the 'super large' category. With an impressive 80% of employees affirming that it is a great place to work, the housing association has secured its position on the list for ten consecutive years. Vicki Carruthers, director of people at Home Group, highlights the organization's commitment to engaging employees and valuing their insights.

Northumbrian Water: Celebrating Six Years of Recognition

Northumbrian Water, coming in at number 28, embodies a culture of inclusion and support. Elouise Leonard-Cross, the group people director, expressed pride in the company’s achievement and noted that 90% of their staff actively participated in the survey. This robust engagement reflects the company's ongoing efforts to build an inclusive environment through their Together for Inclusion, Diversity & Equity strategy.

Gentoo: A Vision for a Supportive Workplace

Ranked 32nd, Sunderland housing association Gentoo attributes its success to a strong focus on fostering a positive culture where employees feel valued. Susan Fulton, the executive director of customer, people, and engagement, emphasized the importance of creating an environment that supports and empowers employees, thereby enhancing service delivery.

Atom and TSG: Innovations in Employee Experience

Atom, a pioneering digital-only bank, and Gateshead-based tech firm TSG have also made an impact in their respective categories. Atom's commitment to nurturing a thriving workplace is evidenced by an 88% employee satisfaction rate, while TSG prides itself on an environment that inspires its staff to achieve their best work. Both companies are testaments to how a positive workplace culture can translate into business success.

Emphasizing Community and Growth

Leighton, ranked 9th among medium workplaces, embodies the spirit of community and collaboration. Their dedication to employee wellbeing and flexible working environments highlights the importance of maintaining a culture that empowers individuals. Similarly, Arctic Wolf's recognition for a second consecutive year underscores the importance of cultivating a workplace that values diversity and inclusivity, contributing to a rewarding experience for all employees.

Overall, the recognition of these companies in the North East not only showcases their achievements but also sets a standard for what it means to prioritize the employee experience in the workplace. As more organizations strive to follow suit, the North East can look forward to a future where positive workplace cultures flourish.