Blog. Walk for Wellbeing: Creative & Inclusive
August 29, 2023 | Author Giuliana Vittiglio
Now in its fourth year, Hospitality Action invites the nation to put on its walking shoes and join Walk for Wellbeing powered by mum to take strides towards promoting better wellbeing for all whilst raising funds to support the charity's vital work. We recently spoke to HA Patron and Creator of Walk for Wellbeing Craig Prentice, alongside some of the teams who have already signed up, to learn more about what we can expect this autumn:
Craig, founder of hospitality talent partner mum, says: “Walk for Wellbeing was created specifically to bring people in hospitality together to do great things, to support those who need it, when they need it. I'm extremely grateful to all those who have worked so hard to make the walk possible including our two event partners Caterer.com and Peoplebank, my co-chair on the project Sean Wheeler, our wonderful organising committee including Placed App and our city hosts Davidson Asset Management, Tonic Talent, the Bath, Bristol and Manchester Hoteliers Associations.
This year's event, taking place between Saturday 30 September – Sunday 15 October, is already starting to build, with sign-ups from all sectors of our industry, many of whom are already proactively fundraising through sponsorship for their walking.
We realise, it's sometimes difficult asking people for sponsorship, but the great news is there are so many ways to fundraise and contribute towards Walk for Wellbeing - no amount is too small and every donation will make a difference.
Away from sponsorship, we’re seeing people and companies getting super creative with their fundraising, which is amazing.
There are so many ways to make a difference; please join us."
Esther O'Halloran, Chair, HR In Hospitality:
Why are you supporting Hospitality Action?
"HR in Hospitality is a not for profit member association we operate as a forum to bring Hospitality HR professionals together to drive the HR agenda. We do this through arranging networking events on key topics and challenges faced by our industry that are informative, educational as well as fun.
A key commitment is in giving something back to our sector so we have nurtured longstanding relationships that support our charity partners of which Hospitality Action is one. Each year at our annual awards ceremony we raise funds to give back to our sector charities and will be doing so again this year. We believe the work you do is important and aligned to the HR wellbeing agenda in supporting people across hospitality."
Olajide Alabi, Equality & Inclusion Partner, Turtle Bay:
What does wellbeing mean to your organisation?
"At Turtle Bay, the heartbeat of our vibrant restaurants are our team members, wellbeing isn't just a word – it's a commitment etched into our DNA. Rooted in our brand values of "Do The Right Thing" and "Recognise Differences and Celebrate Individuality," true wellbeing thrives. We believe that celebrating individuality can't flourish without nurturing our team's welfare.
Imagine this: As the aroma of our delectable dishes fills the air, so does a sense of care for each team member. Wellbeing at Turtle Bay means more than physical health; it's about equipping our diverse teams with the knowledge and tools to safeguard their holistic wellness. Just as our chefs artfully craft flavours, we craft an environment where everyone understands and protects their wellbeing.
By providing resources and fostering understanding, we empower our teams to savour life's richness while cherishing their individuality. This is the symphony where "Do The Right Thing" harmonies with "Recognise Differences and Celebrate Individuality," forming a melody of thriving wellbeing that resonates through every corner of Turtle Bay."
How are you taking part in Walk for Wellbeing?
"Step into a world where wellbeing and camaraderie stride hand in hand – introducing Turtle Bay's Walk for Wellbeing! With our brand values of "Do The Right Thing" and "Recognise Differences and Celebrate Individuality" at heart, we're embarking on a journey that transcends distance and promotes holistic wellness.
Between September 30th and October 15th, our 50 vibrant restaurants and support centre will lace up their shoes and Walk It Your Way. A fitting tribute to World Mental Health Day on October 10th, this initiative encourages each team member to collectively cover 1625 miles – the distance from Turtle Bay Plymouth to Turtle Bay Newcastle.
The challenge is divided by restaurant size, uniting us in our stride towards better wellbeing. Smaller sites, a 40km stride; mediums, a 50km journey; and larger restaurants, a targeted 60km adventure. Using the Strava app, we'll sync our steps, tracking progress and propelling us closer to the finish line.
But there's more – our steps won't just resonate within our walls. With a donation page for each restaurant, we are aiming to try and raise £10k for Hospitality Action.
Step by step, stride by stride, Turtle Bay's Walk for Wellbeing isn't just about covering miles – it's about forging connections, supporting one another, and embodying our brand values in every step we take. Join us on this spirited journey, where wellbeing and unity converge for a brighter, healthier future."
Lorraine Jarvie, General Manager, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa:
Why are you supporting Hospitality Action?
"Over the years as a GM, I have relied on Hospitality Action to offer support and guidance to several members of my team and sadly this has only increased in recent years post-pandemic. They have been able to assist in a wide range of issues varying from drug and alcohol abuse, immigration support, legal advice as well as much needed financial support.
Hospitality Action is our only industry specific charity, so by getting involved and raising money it is our way of giving something back for all the work they do while also ensuring that they have the means to continue their great work into the future."
How are you taking part in the Walk for Wellbeing?
"As a hotel we are encouraging as many team members as possible to take part in the walk. We are also promoting on social media and liaising with our colleagues in other local hotels to get them involved. An example of this is Bath Hampton by Hilton who are going to donate the money raised from a charity bike ride to Hospitality Action. At The Royal Crescent, our Housekeeping Team have started a Staff Raffle, collecting some great prizes from our suppliers and selling tickets to the staff. At reception we are selling Raffle Tickets to guests to win a stay at The Royal Crescent Hotel and our F&B Department are adding a discretionary £1 donation to all of our Afternoon Tea bills. What is important is having a great day out with the team, in the fresh air and getting gentle exercise to show how important this is for all of our wellbeing."
Liene Snukute, UK&I Marketing Executive, MONIN:
What inspired you to take part in Walk for Wellbeing?
"At the heart of MONIN are people, they are what keeps our industry alive but times are tougher than ever. We’re dedicated to supporting the hospitality community however we can; whether through training, sponsorship or in this case, raising awareness. Walk for Wellbeing has come along at a time when the MONIN team have been reflecting on wellbeing within the team. Therefore, Walk for Wellbeing is the perfect opportunity to support both the industry and MONIN team in a different, more engaging way."
How are you taking part?
"We have chosen to 'Walk It Our Way' for Hospitality Action on Monday 9th October from 10am-4pm. Our 20km route starts at the MONIN studio in Hoxton Square and walks through Central London, ending in Southbank, visiting some of our customers, keeping an eye out for any autumn/winter trends along the way for our next Drinks Trend Report. Most importantly, we will use the walk as a time to be together as a team and raise awareness for wellbeing. During the build-up to the walk, the MONIN team are spreading awareness through different initiatives which offer others a break, such as our lemonade stand at our Hoxton studio on 6th September- be sure to stop by if you're in the area, and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn to stay up to date with all our fundraising activities!"
Ros Young, People and Culture Director, Z Hotels:
What inspired you to take part in Walk for Wellbeing?
"Z Hotels recognises the significance of participating in the Walk for Wellbeing as its essential to highlight mental and physical well-being in an incredibly demanding industry.
We place immense importance on our workforce, considering them the heart and soul of our business. We recognise that the wellbeing of our Team Members directly impacts their performance and overall workplace. Z Hotels has established various initiatives to address physical and mental wellness. The Walk for Wellbeing perfectly aligns with the company's core values by offering an opportunity for employees to engage in an activity that fosters physical activity, self-reflection, and camaraderie with others from the industry.
Participating in the Walk for Wellbeing allowed us to get outside and walk with our peers and raise funds for Hospitality Action, a charity we place in high regard. Hospitality Action is a charity that Z Hotels has supported for many years, as it provides aid and support to individuals within the industry who might be facing difficult circumstances. Giving back to those who have contributed to and upheld the hospitality sector is truly rewarding. With so many positive aspects, why would we not want to be involved in this incredible initiative?"
Walk for Wellbeing is a fun, flexible event, open to everyone to take part. To get involved, click here.