Better Engagement Starts Inside: Why We’re Trialling 100-80-100

If you have read our Q3 Strategy Impact Update, you know that this has been a season of incredible output. From national award wins to record-breaking volunteering hours, our team is shouting louder than ever before.

But high impact requires high energy. And to sustain the level of passion and dedication our community deserves, we believe we need to revolutionise the way we work. That is why, as part of our ‘Better Engagement’ objective, we have launched an internal trial of the 100-80-100 model.

What is 100-80-100?

The concept is simple but transformative. It stands for:

• 100% of the pay: Salaries and benefits remain the same.
• 80% of the time: Working hours are reduced (typically to a 4-day week equivalent).
• 100% productivity: Output and service standards remain at the highest level.

Why change?

As a charity, our greatest asset isn’t our buildings or our brand—it is our people. Our youth workers, housing officers, and support staff pour their hearts into their roles, often dealing with emotionally demanding situations.

We believe that a rested team is a resilient team.

1. Reinvigorating our Culture By giving our staff the gift of time—to rest, to spend with family, or to pursue personal passions—we ensure that when they are at work, they are fully present. A team that is well-rested brings more creativity, more patience, and more energy to the vulnerable people we support.

2. Walking the Walk We exist to support the wellbeing of our community. It is only right that we practice what we preach within our own walls. This trial sets YMCA North Tyneside apart as a modern, compassionate employer, helping us attract and retain the very best talent in the sector.

3. Sharper Focus, Better Results The 100% productivity element is key. This isn’t about doing less; it’s about working smarter. By compressing our work week, we are streamlining meetings, reducing administrative clutter, and focusing purely on what drives impact.

This trial is a bold step, but it aligns perfectly with our strategy. To ‘Shout Louder’ effectively, we need a voice that is strong, clear and energised. We are excited to see how this new balance translates into even better support for the young people, families and communities who rely on us.