YMCA South Midlands wins Best Place to Work for second year

YMCA South Midlands has been named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026 for the second year running, with its staff satisfaction score rising from 78% to 86%.

It’s more than just an award. It’s a reflection of a workplace where people feel genuinely supported, valued, and connected to a shared purpose.

That culture doesn’t happen by chance. It’s been built through continued investment in wellbeing, development, and creating an environment where people can truly thrive. And while the recognition is worth celebrating, it’s also a reminder to keep listening, improving, and growing.

As CEO Simon Green puts it:
“Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and this award reflects the culture we’ve worked hard to build – one where everyone feels supported, valued, and dedicated to helping young people.”

Because being a “Best Place to Work” isn’t about perks or policies alone. It’s about how people feel every day when they come to work.

Chair Jennifer Walker describes it as a shared achievement:
“This award reflects the efforts of our whole community to create an environment where colleagues and residents can thrive.”

That sense of community is what makes YMCA South Midlands special. There’s a real connection between the people who work there and the young people they support and it shows in everything they do.

Behind the award is real impact. Every day, the organisation supports young people to build brighter, more independent futures.

Across Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire, YMCA South Midlands provides safe accommodation, practical support, and opportunities for young people aged 18–35 as well as youth services for those aged 8-18. Since 1981, more than 10,000 young people have been helped to take positive steps forward in their lives.

From housing to employment support and training, the focus is always the same: helping young people belong, contribute, and thrive.

And it’s that shared purpose that is felt across every team, every role, every day that truly makes YMCA South Midlands a place people are proud to be part of.