Acting as a new national mark of quality for health, the Small Workplace Health Award will focus on businesses and organisations which have fewer than 50 employees.

The programme will also provide free advice and support to small businesses which are seeking to improve the health and wellbeing initiatives offered to their workforce.

Eight organisations were presented with the first awards at a ceremony held at Glamorgan cricket ground earlier this week, with Dr Tony Jewell, chief medical officer for Wales, saying it recognises their dedication to workplace health.

He adds: ‘I would hope to see this commitment reflected in many more small workplaces across Wales in the months and years ahead.’

Rebecca Griffiths, owner of The Secret Spa in Wrexham, who received an accolade, says placing an emphasis on wellbeing has had an impact on her as an employer, in addition to benefiting her staff.

Earlier this week, recruitment firm Hays claimed workers still expect to receive standard employee benefits such as private healthcare provision and pensions despite the recession.