In the height of Christmas and the festive season, it's a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. But for many in the hospitality industry, Christmas can also amplify financial strain, mental health struggles, and the challenges of an already demanding career. That's where Hospitality Action steps in—an extraordinary lifeline for those who dedicate their lives to serving others.
In this season of goodwill, it’s more important than ever to raise awareness of the resources and help available, so no one in our industry feels they have to face challenges alone. Hospitality Action is a lifeline for many, providing practical, emotional, and financial support to those who need it most.
This why we want to highlight the incredible work of Hospitality Action, a charity that has been a cornerstone of support for hospitality workers and their families for nearly two centuries at this time of year.
Who Are Hospitality Action?
Hospitality Action is the UK’s leading charity for hospitality workers, offering a wide range of services to help those facing tough times. For nearly 200 years, they’ve provided grants, counselling, and practical assistance to support people through illness, financial hardship, and mental health challenges.
Their work covers everyone in hospitality, from chefs and hotel staff to pub landlords and baristas. At a time when the pressures of working in the industry are higher than ever, their services have never been more essential.
How They Help
Hospitality Action is more than just a safety net—they’re a vital resource for individuals and businesses looking to create healthier and more supportive workplaces.
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Mental Health Support
Through their Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), Hospitality Action provides resources for mental health, addiction, family issues, and more. For just £5.50 per employee per year, businesses can offer their teams access to expert counselling, legal advice, and debt support. It’s a small cost for a big impact. -
Emergency Grants
Whether it’s helping people cover essential bills or offering longer-term financial support, Hospitality Action’s grant schemes provide crucial assistance to those in immediate need. -
Support for Retirees
The charity also helps retired hospitality workers stay connected, offering financial aid and buddy schemes to ensure they aren’t left isolated. -
Invisible Chips
This creative initiative allows diners and businesses to support Hospitality Action by "ordering" a portion of Invisible Chips—a humorous and simple way to make donations while dining out. To learn more or get involved, visit Invisible Chips.
A Shared Vision
On Talking Hospitality, we’ve long discussed the importance of supporting the mental and emotional wellbeing of our teams. In Season 1, Episode 6, we spoke with Jeremy Gibson, Marketing Director at Hospitality Action, who shared the incredible work they’ve done to provide lifelines to those in our sector. From grants to mental health toolkits, their efforts have made a real difference to countless lives.
How You Can Support Hospitality Action
Whether you’re an individual, a team leader, or a business owner, there are many ways you can support Hospitality Action:
- Donate: Visit hospitalityaction.org.uk to make a one-off or regular donation.
- Become a Stockist: Add Invisible Chips to your menu and encourage diners to contribute while enjoying their meal.
- Subscribe to EAP: Show your team you care by providing access to expert mental health and legal support.
- Spread the Word: Share their work on social media or let colleagues know about the help available.
Why It Matters
At Talking Hospitality, we believe in the power of community and the importance of looking after each other. Hospitality Action embodies these values, offering a beacon of hope for workers and businesses alike.
This Christmas, as we gather with friends, families, and colleagues, let’s not forget those who make these celebrations possible. Together, we can ensure that every hospitality worker feels valued, supported, and never alone.
For more information or to get help, visit hospitalityaction.org.uk or call their 24/7 helpline at 0808 802 0282.
If you wish to donate visit here.
