The staff survey was completed by 83% of the Urdd’s workforce and includes a fair representation from all departments.

“I am delighted that the Urdd is developing and nurturing a happy workforce that takes pride in its work,” said Siân Lewis, Chief Executive of the Urdd. “Our aim as an organisation is to create a positive culture where staff enjoy coming to work and feel valued and respected. Staff are the backbone of every organisation, and the Urdd certainly has a special workforce.

“Listening to the views of our colleagues is incredibly important, and as an organisation we will continue to listen and evaluate to ensure our staff are happy in their jobs and feel they have the best resources and support to further their potential. Of course, there is always room for improvement, and we will continue to look at good practice along with the resources needed to support the work-life balance and wellbeing of our staff.”

The survey’s main findings are as follows:

98% get along well with their co-workers.
97% of staff enjoy their job.
97% are proud to work for the organisation.
96% feel supported by their line manager and others.
93% of the workforce feel respected.
93% receive adequate opportunities to learn and develop within their jobs.
These figures are above average compared to workplaces across the UK. According to  a recent report, 37% of employees are inspired by their work, 81% report good relationships with colleagues and 75% feel respected by managers.

The Urdd now employs 362 staff across Wales, and 42% of the workforce is under 25. The questionnaire was completed by staff from every department, from all over Wales - from Glan-llyn, Llangrannog, Pentre Ifan and Cardiff Residential Centres to Sports, Eisteddfod and the Arts, Youth and Community, Apprenticeships, Outdoor Activity Service, Central, Communications and International Relations.

Nia Bennett, Chair of the Urdd, said: “We have been clear in our ‘Urdd for All’ strategy that we want to ensure a positive work culture. Our staff’s commitment to ensuring the best provision for our members and the pride they take in their work is clear, and it’s great to see that most of our workforce have positive working relationships with their colleagues and managers.

“I am very pleased with the various steps that have already been implemented and a plan is in place to ensure further developments for the future in collaboration with our workforce.”

The survey’s results also offered an overview of opportunities for the Urdd to improve and develop provision and support for staff, including increasing the percentage of staff stating that the organisation is completely committed to ensuring the wellbeing of staff (65%) and increasing how many report they’re ‘very satisfied’ with their work-life balance (49%).

The Urdd is already investing in a staff health support scheme (RISE) which provides counselling and advice services, Health and Wellbeing support, finance, debt, and personal legal information, as well as a 24/7 doctor service through the medium of Welsh.

In addition, the Urdd is a Living Wage Wales employer and offers competitive and fair wages; the Urdd’s staff forum provides a platform for workers to have their say and input on the organisation’s developments; and there are ongoing training and opportunities for continuous professional development. The Urdd now offers extra holidays extra days off for staff to celebrate their birthday and St David’s Day and in a new development this year has designated an extra day’s holiday to encourage staff to prioritise their wellbeing.