Podcast: Alchemilla's Alex Bond on feeding NHS workers
Bond experimented with delivery following the Government's advice to avoid eating in at restaurants but soon realised he'd have to produce an enormous number of meals to stand any hope of covering his costs.
He and some of his team are now working on a voluntary basis, taking the view that if it's costing the business money to keep the restaurant ticking over they may as well use it for something.
"We can't trade or make any revenue. Even when the doors are closed the running costs are £7,000 a month. We've got asset finance from when we opened, and they've said no to any payment holidays because they're not beholden to any Government legislation. We're still getting charged to have our bins collected."
Alchemilla is providing a total of 400 - 500 meals a week for two local hospitals. The food is provided in takeaway containers that staff can collect from the hospital and heat up at home.
"Many health workers are struggling to feed themselves because the supermarket shelves are empty by the time they finish their shifts. It's just not fair. We want to do whatever we can. We're doing simple stuff, including aubergine curry, spaghetti bolognese and sticky toffee pudding."
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#UnitedWeStand has been created by William Reed hospitality titles BigHospitality, Restaurant magazine and Morning Advertiser and is supported by Arla Pro, Britvic, Coca-Cola European Partners, McCain and Unilever Food Solutions
