New Southwark initiative aims to provide pathway into hospitality industry
Southwark council has launched a new initiative designed to help residents to start and advance careers in the hospitality industry while also helping businesses address challenges in recruitment and retention.
The launch of Southwark’s Hospitality Skills Hub is a response to broader trends within the UK hospitality sector, which has faced staffing pressures following Brexit and the Covid pandemic.
The Hospitality Skills Hub will provide free training and one to one support to Southwark residents interested in hospitality careers, aiming to create 130 jobs and apprenticeships over the next two years.
Behind it is is training and development company Rinova Ltd, in partnerships with Hilton Bankside, Jumeirah Carlton Tower Hotel, Unwind Bars Waterloo, The Hoxton Hotel, Strand Palace Hotels, Sea Containers London, Elephant and Castle Town Centre, and Camberwell Business Network.
Councillor John Batteson, cabinet member for climate emergency, jobs, and business, said: “The Hospitality Skills Hub will strengthen our economy by connecting Southwark residents with meaningful careers and ensure local businesses thrive in what is a competitive market.
“At a time when many hospitality employers face challenges in finding skilled workers, this initiative is crucial for sustaining growth and offering fair, quality jobs in our community.
“The Hub also supports the national trend toward fairer wages and working conditions in hospitality. There are now over 390 accredited employers paying the London Living Wage in Southwark already, and the Hub will work with local businesses to drive this number even higher.”
Aimee Lubwama, director at Hilton Bankside, said: “We are excited to take part in the launch of this new programme through the Southwark Hospitality Skills Hub.
“It is a great opportunity not only to showcase the fantastic career paths available within the industry but also to help nurture young talent in our local community and provide them with the key skills they need to thrive in the future.”
For Southwark residents and hospitality employers interested in participating, registration is open through the Hospitality Skills Hub.
Picture: Pixabay/OurWhiskyFoundation