Podcast: James Sommerin on feeding the NHS
What originally started as a way to use up some stock has tuned into a major operation, with Sommerin teaming up with his local Hospital Trust to launch a crowdfunding drive.
The cash is being used to buy more produce to make simple, hearty dishes including stews, lasagnes and bread and butter pudding that can easily be reheated by staff on the wards.
With the majority of his staff now on furlough, Sommerin is working alongside his wife and daughter to produce the meals.
"We just wanted to do our bit and have a bit of fun," he says. "We haven't had much downtime, catering for so many people with so few staff has actually been harder than running the restaurant."
"But it's made me appreciate the family aspect of what we do and also made us think more carefully about work life balance."
#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.
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