Meet Laura Anderton, Director of HR at YMCA Together.

Laura Anderton – Director of HR

What does your role involve?

My role involves providing a supportive and inclusive culture where everyone feels safe to have a voice and be empowered in their roles.

 

What qualities are essential to your work at YMCA Together?

Our SHREK values embody the qualities I need for my role. Strength comes in when managing challenging situations alongside people. Humility is knowing you aren’t always right and openly admitting the lessons learned. The values I identify with most are Empathy and Kindness. It costs nothing to be kind to people and treat everyone as equals without judgment.

 

Describe your typical working day.

My role has no typical working day; it changes from day to day. I began working for YMCA Together as an HR Manager in an operational role. 

Being HR Director has removed me from the day-to-day HR issues and into more of a strategic role. This involves working on our strategic plan in many different areas, including providing a positive working culture and investing in people and their progression pipeline.

 

What’s the most rewarding element of your work?

The people I work with. Also, having the autonomy to be involved in making meaningful changes to policy, training, and processes. 

I lead the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and staff forum, and this is where I feel most at home, listening to people’s ideas and getting creative so we can make YMCA Together a better place to work and a better home for the people we work alongside.

 

Describe your most memorable moment at YMCA Together.

My most memorable moments are at the SHREK Awards. I find the event such a humbling evening. I love how we all come together to celebrate each other and listen to the incredible work that goes on in services by our wonderful, caring staff.

 

How do you relax outside of work?

I relax by spending time with my loved ones and walking my naughty Dachshund, Denzil. I enjoy being creative, going on holiday, and exploring new places. I like nothing better than sitting out in the evening sunshine with a glass of wine!

 

If you could change one thing about society to improve the lives of the people you work alongside, what would it be?

Everyone should have the access to the same rights, opportunities, and services.

Every person deserves the right to access job opportunities and healthcare. We all deserve a home. 

I’d like to see everyone get the treatment and care they deserve.