Russell Kane hosts Burnt Chef Project gala dinner
The event, which took place at ExCel London on 25 March, also raised thousands of pounds for the project.
It was on the first night of the Hotel, Restaurant and Catering Show, in partnership with Unox, and brought together suppliers, operators, training and education providers and others from across the sector.
Hosted by comedian Russell Kane, the event not only raised money, it also served its purpose of facilitating discussion, hosting conversation and raising awareness of the mental health crisis in the hospitality profession.
On the night, Scott Duncan, Unox UK managing director said: “Love Hospitality was a truly fitting way to celebrate some of the incredible people who work in our wonderful sector, providing a platform to discuss the need for improved mental health support and raise much-needed funds to support the work of The Burnt Chef Project.
Epic fundraiser
“As a long-term supporter of this great cause, Unox UK was delighted to return as headline partner – announcing our epic fundraising challenge – Moving Mountains for Mental Health – in the process.”
Celebrating some of the many incredible talents and those who go above and beyond to provide mental health support, Love Hospitality also hosted the first Hospitality’s Mental Health Heroes awards, in association with Talent Hive.
With six categories, the awards were the pinnacle of the night, celebrating those who’ve championed mental health in their workplace. The winners on the night were:
• Best Mental Health in the Workplace Strategy, sponsored by MHFA England – Winner: Marston’s PLC
• Most Inspiring Leader, sponsored by Wafflemeister – Winner: Carly Heath, Bristol City Council
• Most Inspiring Wellbeing Champion, sponsored by Planday – Winner: Joe Bentley, Cedar Court
• Unsung Hero, sponsored by Eat PR & Marketing – Winner: Simon Green, The Kitchen Shrink
• Inspirational Story, sponsored by Thomas Franks – Winner: Jose Jesus Monteiro
• Outstanding Impact in Catering Education, sponsored by Lordwell – Winner: Simon Hart, Southampton City College
Could not be prouder
On being headline partner for the awards, Will Gennard, managing director at Talent Hive said: “We could not be prouder of every winner, runner up and finalist at the inaugural Hospitality’s Mental Health Heroes awards – congratulations to everyone who received a nomination.
“In a profession such as hospitality, it’s vital to be able to recognise and reward those who go the extra mile, especially when championing mental health support to others within their businesses.”
The waiting and cooking staff, who were part of the Thomas Franks catering team, were applauded by guests after the food service.
To read a feature with The Burnt Chef Project founder and CEO Kris Hall, click here.
