The UK needs a Minister For Hospitality
Did you know that in the UK, the hospitality industry accounts for about 3 million jobs and generates £130bn annually, yet unlike sectors such as the Arts or Sports, does not have a dedicated government minister? Now more than ever the hospitality industry, our third biggest employer in the country, needs a voice!
Our hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, pubs, cafes and bars up and down the country continue to face massive challenges due to the Covid crisis, constantly changing goal posts and crippling restrictions. To date, issues are usually addressed by the Culture Secretary or the Work & Pensions Secretary - the industry is calling for a dedicated Minister For Hospitality who would liaise with industry representatives and provide vital representation for the sector as it navigates the pandemic and the future of UK hospitality.
The Farmer’s Arms, Devon, UK
A petition calling for this has to date gathered over 170,000 signatures amidst widespread support from leading industry figures and, having well exceeded the threshold of 100,000 signatures, stands to be debated by Government on 11th January 2021.
Click the link below to add your name and help UK hospitality get the support it needs, ensuring its road to future recovery. You can also show your support on social by using the hashtag #seatatthetable.
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/552201
Anyone working in the hospitality industry and struggling personally can contact the following organisations and resources for help, support and advice:
https://www.hospitalityaction.org.uk
https://hospitalityhealth.org.uk
https://www.wearetipjar.com/apply-for-grant
https://www.ttgmedia.com/coronavirus-support
https://www.abtalifeline.org.uk/need-our-help
The thing that the UK hospitality industry is built on is the talent, hard work and warm personalities of its wonderful people - if we all pull together we’ll come out of this challenging time far stronger and ready to welcome better times ahead.