COVID 19 and the hospitality industry

Like other businesses, we were affected by the devastation of our industry caused by the effects of COVID-19.

Keeping ahead of best practice guidance and changes in scientific understanding is essential.  It is also important to only follow advice from authoritative sources.  Sources of information include:

World Health Organisation:

The WHO provides information on world heath, and also provides detailed information on COVID 19. https://www.who.int

UK Government:

• General Coronavirus (COVID-19) related advice.  https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
• Specific advice on working safely. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19
• Health and Safety Executive - the UK’s national regulator for workplace health and safety provides detailed guidance on risk assessment and managing risks, and on working safely, restarting work, and being COVID-secure.  https://www.hse.gov.uk

Professional associations:

• UK Hospitality – the trade body for the UK hospitality industry provides up-to-date detailed advice to help operators and suppliers through the pandemic.  https://www.ukhospitality.org.uk
• Institute of Hospitality – the professional international hospitality management association provides detailed information on navigating business instability caused by COVID-19. https://www.instituteofhospitality.org

Personal support for industry professionals:

• Hospitality Action - provides a range of support services to help hospitality people back on their feet again after a setback.  https://www.hospitalityaction.org.uk/about-us
• CareerScope - free service supported by a range of industry associations, supporting those want to get back into work, and those looking to start their career in hospitality, leisure, and tourism.  https://careerscope.uk.net
• The Food Service Circle - support network for food service and contract catering professionals.  Founded by the leaders of the UK’s food service companies, their aim is to help everyone impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic by sharing ideas, insights, and job opportunities.  https://foodservicecircle.com