Hostelling has been disproportionately hit by COVID-19. Yet hostels contribute more than any other aspect of hospitality to wellbeing, connection with nature and the rural economy

YHA has joined with Independent Hostels UK, Hostelling Scotland, Scottish Independent Hostels and Hostelling International Northern Ireland to ask the Government for additional support for hostels – recognising their unique role in providing affordable, sustainable travel.

Anita Kerwin-Nye, Director of Strategy & Engagement said:

Hostels have the ingredients needed to support the nation’s recovery: connections to nature; affordable breaks near home and within the UK; access to heritage; support for communities and schools.

When circumstances allow, hostels are able to open safely and provide a much-needed change of scene. We have shown that over last summer and autumn, as over 100,000 guests returned to us.

We are grateful for Government support so far, but hostels now need extra help on the path to reopening in 2021 and towards renewal in 2022.

It’s fantastic to be able to come together with our colleagues across the sector to form Hostelling Together. Our aim is to protect the future of affordable and sustainable tourism for all.

You can read the case to support here

Find out more about BETA Member YHA here