Blog. Spotlight on: South Place Hotel

We are indebted to the countless individuals and organisations who devote their time, energy, and resources to uplift those we support. Today, we shine a spotlight on one such inspirational figure HA Ambassador, Dean Culpan, General Manager, South Place Hotel, whose commitment to HA has touched countless lives.

Why did you decide to fundraise for Hospitality Action?

At South Place Hotel, we recognize the unique challenges faced by professionals in the hospitality industry. Hospitality Action is a charity that directly supports individuals within our sector who are struggling, whether due to financial hardship, illness, or other personal difficulties. We chose to fundraise for Hospitality Action because it’s a cause that hits close to home; it allows us to give back to an industry that we are deeply connected to and passionate about. By supporting this charity, we’re helping to ensure that our colleagues and peers have the resources and assistance they need during tough times, reinforcing our commitment to the well-being of our industry community.

How does supporting Hospitality Action align with South Place’s values and goals?

Supporting Hospitality Action aligns perfectly with South Place Hotel’s core values of community, empathy, and responsibility. We believe in fostering a supportive environment not only within our hotel but also across the entire industry. By partnering with Hospitality Action, we extend our commitment to caring for our colleagues beyond the walls of our establishment. This initiative reflects our goal of contributing to a more sustainable and compassionate industry, where the wellbeing of individuals is prioritized. It also allows us to demonstrate leadership in corporate social responsibility, setting a standard for others in the hospitality sector.

Was it easy to set up the £1 on the bill mechanism, what steps did you have to follow?

Setting up the £1 on the bill mechanism was a straightforward process, thanks to the cooperation between our management team and our service staff. The first step involved securing buy-in from all stakeholders, ensuring that everyone understood the importance of this initiative. Next, we worked with our POS (Point of Sale) provider to integrate the donation option seamlessly into our billing system. We also trained our staff to explain the initiative to guests, emphasizing that their contribution, while small, would make a significant impact. Clear communication and technical support were key in making the process smooth and efficient.

Tell us about the role South Place plays in Walk for Wellbeing. How does South Place support the wellbeing of its employees?

South Place Hotel is committed to promoting wellness, both within its community and among its team members. For the Walk for Wellbeing event, South Place played a vital logistical role, managing the arrangements for the London walk held at Battersea Park. The team provided nourishing breakfast and lunch for the 390 participants, ensuring a seamless experience that allowed them to focus on the walk’s purpose—raising awareness for mental health and wellbeing. Internally, South Place emphasizes the health and happiness of its employees through supportive workplace initiatives, offering wellness programs, flexible schedules, and team-building activities that foster a positive environment. This commitment aligns with their values, creating a workplace where staff feel valued and cared for while encouraging a culture that promotes balance and mindfulness.