Blog. Check Please

December 12, 2022 | Author: Jeremy Gibson

After a challenging year we’re all hoping that the industry receives some much-needed cheer this festive season, as the nation celebrates Christmas.

We live in very anxious times which can make this festive season all the more stressful for our colleagues. In a recent survey conducted by our friends at Bidfood nearly half of respondents (46%) say the hardest thing about working over the Christmas period is being away from their families.

This Christmas season, we’re proud to be partnering with Bidfood to bring #CheckPlease – a campaign designed to act as a health barometer for the hospitality industry. The campaign goal is to encourage both employers and consumers to spot early signs of stress, be kinder and check that those working in hospitality are okay.

From the 7^th of December Bidfood will fund our free-to-access 24 hour helpline for the duration of the festive season. In addition, toolkits have been assembled, tailored with the hospitality industry in mind, to help employers to not only reach out, but invigorate their teams through recognition and reward.

But with 30% of hospitality staff saying they have had to deal with difficult or rude customers during what is meant to be the happiest season of all, Bidfood has also explored ways to help the general public be more aware of the positive and negative impact they can have on staff. Posters, table-talkers and ‘specials’ menus, will also be available through the toolkits, sign-posting consumers on how they can interact with staff in a kind, appreciative and respectful way, alleviating their stress.

Commenting on the campaign, Tim Adams, Sales and Marketing Director at Bidfood said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Hospitality Action to raise awareness and offer support to the industry during the incredibly busy Christmas months.

“It’s been a tough couple of years for the industry and as we approach our first completely normal Christmas since 2019, there is bound to be some nervousness and anxiety amongst workers, so we wanted to launch a campaign to help support those who need it.

“We really hope the public get behind this campaign when they’re out this Christmas and think about the stress those serving them may be under, making sure they don’t forget to ask for the #CheckPlease!”

Hospitality Action’s Chief Executive, Mark Lewis said: “I’m delighted for us to be partnering with Bidfood once again on another meaningful campaign.

“Not only does this campaign reflect the hard work, dedication and importance of our industry over the festive period, but also reminds us of the difficulties and stresses that it brings to those in the sector.

“Staff sacrifice a lot so that others can enjoy themselves and it’s fantastic that we’re offering support to help them navigate what can be a challenging period.”

To find out more about #CheckPlease including a campaign video, advice and support pages and to download your very own digital toolkit, please visit: www.bidfood.co.uk/checkplease.