Hospitality Action Week 2012: How to get involved

The annual fundraising week has already seen a huge number of key industry faces and big businesses pledge their support, including the likes of Aiden Byrne, Michael Caines and Park Plaza Hotels.

“Over the past year, we’ve seen a 15 per cent increase in funds spent on those in need, as many households struggle in the economic climate,” explained Penny Moore, Hospitality Action’s chief executive. “Hospitality Action relies solely on donations, so industry support is vital to the work we do.”

‘At your discretion’​

As part of the Week, restaurants across the country are being urged to take part in the ‘At your discretion’ fundraising appeal, by adding a discretionary donation of £1 to customers’ bills in support of the industry charity.

Chef Michael Caines is among those supporting the appeal and will be operating it within Michael Caines Adobe restaurants in Chester and Manchester. He said: “Simply by adding a discretionary donation of just £1 to your bill during Hospitality Action Week, you will provide a vital lifeline to those in need in the hospitality industry.”

Park Plaza Hotels has also signed up, with eight restaurants and bars across the seven Park Plaza Hotels participating.  Greg Hegarty, regional general manager for Park Plaza UK, said: “It’s such a small donation on the part of our guests which will make a huge difference to our fellow hospitality industry peers that have fallen on hard times. We’re so pleased to have the opportunity to provide a lifeline to those who need it.”

The appeal, which is being promoted nationally through Livebookings, has also enlisted the support of Aiden Byrne, The Mark Addy, Seafood Pub Company and Lancashire Taverns, among others.

Hospitality Action Week video​

The below video shows some of the messages of support from the likes of Peter Hancock, chief executive of Pride of Britain Hotels; Stephen Carter, chairman of De Vere Cameron House; and James Tanner, co-owner of Tanners Restaurant.

Other fundraising tips:​

Hospitality Action has provided the following suggestions and ideas for your hospitality business to get involved and raise money.

• Restaurants: ​Have you thought about auctioning off your chef’s skills for a night to give customers the opportunity to host a dinner party of their own?
• Hotels:​ Have you considered taking part in the ‘At your discretion’ appeal, or donating any spa treatment, meal or room service charge to Hospitality Action for the week?
• Publicans: ​A quiz night, or fancy dress party, or both!
• Contract caterers: ​You could offer tickets to our Big Prize Draw, for just £1 each, with the chance to win a trip to Florida among other prizes.

Hospitality Action is a UK-based charity which supports colleagues working in the industry during a period of crisis. The charity helped 1,492 people last year. For more information on Hospitality Action Week, visit www.hospitalityaction.org.uk/haweek​.