Hospitality heavyweights join forces to launch unemployment support service
Launching today (28 September), CareerScope is a joint venture between Springboard, Hospitality Action, UK Hospitality, the Institute of Hospitality and the Savoy Educational Trust.
The free online hub will support those within hospitality, leisure and tourism who’ve either lost their jobs or are struggling to find work by providing support in the form of CV writing resources, career webinars and redundancy advice, as well as financial support and health and well-being resources.
Some of the biggest names in hospitality have backed the initiative, including Michel Roux Jr, Clare Smyth, Raymond Blanc, Alastair Storey, Wendy Bartlett and Danny Pecorelli.
They say CareerScope a vital initiative for protecting the future of their workforce.
“Each year thousands of young people come to work in our industry, but Covid-19 has forced many businesses to lay off staff to survive," says Roux Jr.
"Post Covid and post Brexit, I really fear for the future generation of young chefs, waiters, restaurateurs and hoteliers.
“As an industry we had to do something about it. In a time of crisis, it’s never been more important to look after our people, ensure they are happy, healthy and ready for work.
"We must be ready to welcome back those who have long and established careers in the industry, as well as ensuring the next generation of workers are coming through. This is a great initiative and shows that, even when the industry is going through its toughest period, we really care about our people.”
A digital training academy will also be offered through the initiative to keep those currently out of work up to date with the latest essential training.
“We were facing a staffing crisis before Covid-19," says Smyth.
"We need to take drastic action to ensure there is the next generation of chefs coming through when the industry recovers, when opportunities for chefs to grow and develop will be stronger than ever.
"CareerScope is a great initiative to help those who’ve lost their jobs get back on their feet and give them the skills and support to relaunch their career.”
For more information on CareerScope, click here.
