SEM’s CEO was invited to the launch of the YHA’s (Youth Hostel Association) refreshed strategy at the Houses of Parliament. The 10-year strategy has a shared mission to connect people with each other, the outdoors, nature and heritage through hostels in amazing places.
Back in 2020, the YHA published its 10-year strategy titled, Adventure. For the first time and a lifetime. This served it well, guiding efforts to improve access to travel and adventure for all, especially young people.
James Blake, CEO of the YHA acknowledged that as a result of the changed financial picture and challenges facing society and the YHA’s beneficiaries today, the YHA is refreshing its strategy to bring a laser-like focus to activities and to deepen impact.
He noted that with this refreshed strategy, the YHA strides out on the road to its centenary in 2030 with it’s sights set on long-term sustainability and the determination to deliver on a purpose for beneficiaries and wider society. Adding, “we are ambitious to make a big difference but cannot do it alone and therefore look forward to working with partners to bring this refreshed strategy to fruition and to connect people to each other, the outdoors, nature and heritage.”
There were also speeches from Margaret Hart, Chair of the YHA and Defra Minister Baroness Hayan, who said the Labour Government is committed to making nature accessible to all.
The strategy can be found at yha.org.uk