2025 Shortlisted nominee
DIVERSITY TEAMS AWARD
YHA is embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion into every aspect of its work, proving that lasting change doesn’t require big budgets but bold commitment. With no formal EDI funding, its small team has created innovative resources, including bite-size training, a Recognition & Awareness Calendar, and an EDI intranet hub. Inclusive leadership training has reached all managers, ensuring learning cascades across the workforce. Applications from ethnically diverse candidates have grown from 6% in 2021 to 46% in 2024, and disabled candidate applications now match national benchmarks. Today, 21.66% of YHA’s workforce are from ethnic backgrounds, and 6.48% identify as disabled, with more than 70% in both groups proud to work at YHA. Recognised with an Autism Friendly Award, transparent reporting, and upcoming staff networks, YHA is building a culture where inclusion is not an initiative but a lived experience.
