Be Kind to Hospitality campaign calls on industry peers to help the sector with donations

A charity supporting those working in the hospitality industry is asking business owners within the sector to donate to help struggling staff.

The Be Kind to Hospitality campaign previously asked the public to be respectful of hospitality and night time industry workers after Covid lockdowns, but has now shifted to include hospitality businesses themselves.

The campaign hopes to raise money for The Benevolent Society, commonly known as The Ben, which supports people working across the hospitality industries with mental health support, grants and ongoing financial aid where needed.

Graham Chalmers of Radisson RED Glasgow, and founder of the Be Kind to Hospitality campaign said: “This is such an important cause and one we in the industry really need to get behind. We have all suffered in the last couple of years so helping offer support for those in greatest need is vital.

“The public responded hugely when we asked them to Be Kind To Hospitality – now it is time for businesses, owners and senior staff from within hospitality and associated industries to do the same, to help everyone across the trade. The people have helped us – now we help each other.

“Whether you’re a trainee glass collector, a dish washer, a cleaner, a nightclub cloakroom attendant, a DJ, a mixologist, a chef, a porter, a manager or even a business owner, The Ben exists to act as a safety net for you.

“Anyone who works in hospitality, leisure or night-time industries can contact them in their hour of need and ask for help and support – they look at each case on merit and offer not only one-off grants, but ongoing support as long as it is needed. Their mental health helpline and support are so essential in these stressful times, for all of us.”

Last year the campaign was backed by celebrity chefs Tom Kitchin and Gary McLean. This year, other big names in the food world have given their support, including celebrity chef Dean Banks.

He said: “This is a great initiative to encourage all of us within the industry to support a charity that, simply, not enough people are aware of.

“The Ben do fantastic work in helping anyone in the Scottish hospitality trade who needs it, whether you’re a business owner or someone just starting out.

“Times are so difficult for all of us at the moment that helping spread the word that this kind of support is there is vital – and of course contributing to help The Ben continue their work is essential too.”

For more info on The Ben visit bensoc.org.uk