Matlock charity named as one of UK’s most inclusive employers
A leading outdoor and youth charity, YHA (England & Wales) which is headquartered in Matlock, has been officially recognised as one of the UK’s most inclusive employers, after securing a place in the prestigious Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List 2025/26.
The annual list, published in December, saw YHA ranked at number 45. Compiled by an expert judging panel, the list highlights employers who demonstrate best practice throughout their organisation across all strands of diversity, including age, disability, gender, LGBTQ+, race, faith, and religion.
This is the first time YHA has appeared on the list which has been published for the last 10 years. The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List is the only UK benchmarking initiative dedicated to recognising true internal inclusivity and sets the standard for progressive employment practice.
Based on Dimple Road in Matlock, where it has a thriving national office, YHA’s hostel network of more than 100 youth hostels in England and Wales employs 900 people and provides opportunities for nearly 1,900 volunteers.
The Inclusive Top 50 judging panel praised YHA’s approach to inclusivity, saying it was a testament to the charity’s “bold, innovative approach’ and “belief that inclusion is not only a moral responsibility but also a powerful driver of organisational success.”
Since 2021 YHA has made significant strides in diversifying its workforce. Applications from ethnically diverse candidates have risen from just 6% to an impressive 51%, surpassing the charity’s original target of 35%. Nearly a quarter (22%) of YHA’s workforce are from ethnic minority backgrounds, and 6.5% identify as having a disability, which is above the national benchmark.
Placement in the Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List follows hot on the heels of YHA’s recent win at the Inclusive Awards 2025. YHA’s People and EDI team scooped the Diversity Teams Award at the Awards held at London’s Hurlingham Club on 27 November.
The Inclusive Awards - organised by Inclusive Companies, is the only awards ceremony that rewards organisations and individuals for harnessing a truly diverse workforce. It recognises the significant efforts of those who have excelled in their commitment to equality and inclusion across all strands of diversity.
Paul Sesay, CEO of Inclusive Companies, said: “As we reflect on how far we’ve progressed since launching the Inclusive Awards over a decade ago, it’s clear that our collective commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion continues to gain strength.
"Yet meaningful change requires ongoing dedication. There is still important work ahead, and the remarkable efforts of this year’s winners remind us what is possible.
"By celebrating their impact and elevating their voices, I hope the Inclusive Awards will motivate even more organisations to push boundaries, challenge norms, and champion inclusion in ways that create lasting transformation.”