This October sees the start of staff exchange programme with DJH (YHA's German sister organisation) in Hamburg. This will be an exciting partnership providing opportunities for both organisations to share their experiences and for employees to learn about life and work in a different country. YHA believes the programme will provide the foundations for a long-lasting and rewarding relationship between both associaions.

In August YHA met with their colleagues in DJH to agree steps and plan for the evaluation of the programme before extending it further. The meeting was very positive with a willingness to make the exchange programme a success for all involved.

On 3rd October five employees from DJH arrived in the UK; four of whom are hostel managers from Geesthacht, Hoernum, Luebeck and Hamburgand and one from the marketing office in Hamburgand. They will be living and working in YHA hostels in Ambleside, National Forest, Grinton Lodge and Oxford and at the Matlock office.

The programme provides DJH employees the opportunity to experience all activities within the hostel, and in the case of marketing, being given the up to date position of YHA brand and marketing campaigns. Sharing of best practice, ideas, culture, customer service and much more will be the theme. It also provides an opportunity to build lasting friendships.

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