For the first time, YHA has developed a strategy specifically for Wales. The report, YHA in Wales, refocuses the organisation’s mission of serving local communities and positions it as a partner in the broader wellbeing of young people throughout Wales. In addition, of course, to offering affordable accommodation among breath-taking Welsh landscapes.
James Blake, chief executive of YHA, said: “Our new strategy for Wales is not a voice in an echo chamber; we have listened to the individuals and organisations that have taken the time to contribute, and these voices have helped shape the priorities for YHA in Wales, which will be delivered over the next three years.
“We believe that by working with partners who share our ambitions, we can make a real difference to the lives of children and young people across Wales.”
More than 300 individuals and organisations have been involved in the six-month consultation, including Deaf Hub Wales, Ramblers Cymru, All Wales Forum and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
YHA’s first hostel in Wales, Pennant Hall, opened in 1929, a year before YHA was formally established. There are now 21 youth hostels in Wales, comprising 15% of the network.
The top priorities that emerged from the consultation were to work more closely with educators to deliver residentials, as well as to develop apprenticeships, volunteering, training and employment opportunities for young people in Wales. These priorities are included in the strategy’s pledges (below).
Nisbah Hussain from the Muslim youth empowerment charity Equalinks said: “YHA in Wales is a fantastic opportunity. I think Wales is sometimes overlooked when we are planning adventures, but it offers so much to everybody; there’s something that hits everybody’s needs and requirements.”
YHA in Wales: five key pledges
- To strengthen the role that YHA and its hostels play in celebrating Wales’ natural and cultural heritage.
- To improve the use of the Welsh language across the organisation.
- To support more young people and families living in Wales to experience adventure.
- To ensure YHA has the right mix of hostels in the right places in Wales, all offering quality stays.
- To make sure YHA’s programmes and operations across the organisation consider the specific context of Wales.
Find out more about YHA in Wales.
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