Sandie and Phillip were often overwhelmed by the care their son received and wanted to thank the staff who helped their son, but often found it difficult to relay messages to them. This is at a time when both the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and education sector has poor staff well-being and retention owing to staff feeling under-appreciated.

Our culture often seems driven to look for the worst, to highlight what is wrong, instead of giving thanks and praise for the good that can be found in so many, especially in Unsung Heroes in education and healthcare. We can all contribute to making others feel worthy and appreciated by giving genuine thanks when deserved. Phillip and I believe that a lack of appreciation, especially in the public sector, contributes hugely to the mental health problems so common in society today.