A Lake District inn is introducing a number of new initiatives in an attempt to address the industry-wide problem of staff shortages across hospitality.
Owner of The Punch Bowl Inn & Restaurant at Crosthwaite, Richard Rose, believes the industry needs to up its game when it comes to placing value on staff.
He said: “The hospitality industry is in turmoil, and we know it’s going to take time to recover, so we can’t just sit back and hope to fill positions as easily as we’ve done in the past. Businesses all over the UK are competing for staff to fill a wide range of job roles, so there’s never been a better time to review the packages on offer and make sure we stand out from the crowd.
“Historically jobs in hospitality aren’t talked about for their positive points – of which of course there are many – but we want to make it our mission to change this. Anyone involved in this industry will understand it takes a special kind of person to thrive in this line of work, and the rewards, benefits, working conditions, and health and wellbeing initiatives need to match the efforts put in.
“That’s why we’re specifically working toward a four-and-a-half-day week for all staff to improve overall wellbeing and encourage a better work-life balance. We’re also introducing a new employee profit share-based bonus scheme, enhancing our training, and providing private health care, which will protect our people’s mental as well as physical health.”
The rural location of the Punch Bowl Inn combined with the Lake District’s high number of surrounding properties being converted to holiday lets, have made it a challenge for Richard to provide staff accommodation, so he’s had to explore alternative options.
“Our striking location plus our reputation have always helped us attract some great people,” said Richard. “But the flip side to being in such a picturesque area is that as soon as properties become available, they’re quickly snapped up to let out as holiday accommodation. We don’t want travel to hinder people joining us, so we’re looking at providing travel expenses for staff as additional support if they aren’t based within the local area. And of course, we’ll also do what we can to offer short-term accommodation while people settle into the Punch Bowl and into the area.”
Career development is also a key priority at the Punch Bowl Inn with Richard investing heavily in his team over the years; from ongoing training, coaching, and mentoring in-house to having opportunities to gain valuable experience at other prestigious venues and alongside top producers.
He added: “When you’re part of the Punch Bowl family, we’ll support you fully in developing your career. Our chefs have carried out stages in the kitchens of some of the UK’s best Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as learning from some leading culinary talents in industry competitions.
“We’re passionate about showing people the benefits of working in hospitality and just how diverse and vibrant our industry can be. The last 18 months have been some of the most challenging times we’ve been through, but we now need to come together to influence positive change for future generations. Hospitality really is an exciting and sociable career option, and one where staff mean everything.”
