Employees at the Youth Sport Trust, which marks its 25^th anniversary this year, are among some of the most fulfilled in the UK. Based in Loughborough but operating on a national scale, the Youth Sport Trust is placed 8^th on the list of top 100 not-for-profit organisations. It achieved a three-star accreditation from Best Companies, the highest standard of workplace engagement.

Best Companies Founder and CEO, Jonathan Austin said:

“I would like to congratulate the Youth Sport Trust on achieving a Three Star Accreditation and being named as one of the UK’s Best Companies to Work for. Best Companies has been acknowledging excellence in the workplace since 2006 when we launched our Michelin style accreditation standard. We are proud to work with organisations like the Youth Sport Trust who focus on their people and as such have been rewarded with an engaged workforce who tell us that they’re a best company to work for.” 

The charity prides itself on being values-driven and mission-led, with all staff given the opportunity to engage in the leadership and direction of the organisation. Its Employee Forum plays a central role in key decisions and time is invested in the development of a culture which fosters innovation, creativity and personal passion.

CEO Ali Oliver, who joined the charity in 2004 and became its chief executive in 2015, said:

“We are incredibly proud to have been recognised by Best Companies as one of the best places to work in the UK. It is a testament to our brilliant staff who live out our values of trust, responsibility, integrity and partnership working in everything they do to deliver on this mission of this charity.

“This year marks 25 years since the Youth Sport Trust was founded. During that time we have been privileged to work with some fantastic funders and partners on programmes which have had a lasting impact on young people’s lives. This all starts with an engaged workforce and is why we place such importance on creating a positive environment and culture where all of our staff feel valued and supported to make a difference.”

The Youth Sport Trust works with around 20,000 schools across the UK. Its recently published 2019 annual impact report shows that it reached 630,000 young people in the last academic year, supporting them to develop important life skills, do better in school and improve their wellbeing.