Hospitality Action launches emergency appeal to support those affected by coronavirus

Industry charity Hospitality Action has launched an emergency appeal to help it support those affected by coronavirus across the industry.

With many hospitality workers facing a reduction in hours or a complete loss of income the charity is asking those who can, to give their support.

Hospitality Action's CEO, Mark Lewis said: "While we welcome the government's recent announcements around a degree of support for business, the reality for many in the industry today is bleak with many facing a reduction in their working hours or a sudden and complete loss of income.

"Every penny donated to our appeal will go towards helping hospitality workers and their families avoid destitution. We can't help everybody, and our fund isn't a long-term solution, but we hope it'll provide a degree of protection for some workers while they apply for government help.

"In our 183-year history UK hospitality has never faced a challenge like this during peacetime and it's vital that anybody who can, acts to support us now."

Those already to pledge their support include chefs Tom Brown, Richard Corrigan, Angela Hartnett, Paul Ainsworth and the charity's principal patron, Jason Atherton.

Hospitality Action was established in 1837 and has since offered vital assistance to all who work, or have worked within hospitality in the UK. As well as financial aid, it also supports those facing physical illness, mental health issues, family problems and addiction.

To make a donation go to www.hospitalityaction.org.uk/donate/ (please quote ‘COVID-19' when donating).