Petition calls for special visas for hospitality workers

24/08/2022

Thousands of people have signed a petition calling on the Government to create a special visa for hospitality workers from abroad.

The petition says the change would allow EU nationals to come to the UK to work in hospitality for up to two years.

The petition, started by Thiago Luz Togni, is calling for the creation of a visa similar to the seasonal worker visa for horticulture workers.

Now the Government says it will respond after the petition surpassed 10,000 signatures.

Chefs, but not cooks qualify for skilled visa

Under Government guidance, chefs are eligible for a skilled worker visa as a result of changes made by the Government, but bizarrely those classed as cooks do not.

The petition runs until February 2023 and if it gains 100,000 signatures, the Government will consider it for debate in Parliament.

A statement on the petition said: “There is a massive shortage of qualified labour in the UK to fill vacancies that were in many cases previously filled by EU staff.

“For years people from the EU countries were the backbone of the hospitality industry and many were affected by Covid and subsequently by Brexit’s final terms. Many restaurants are struggling to find people with experience and willingness to work.”

In the meantime, it’s just as important to keep staff engaged, to reduce expensive turnover.

Pay and conditions

It’s obvious that pay is a key and perhaps deciding factor, but a pleasant environment will encourage staff to stay, therefore reducing advertising costs and helping to create a positive culture.

Consult staff on the way forward

They are on the frontline and can see problems as they occur. Consult them on the operation of the business and how they could improve which allows them to buy into the business culture.

Referrals are a bonus

If staff are happy, they are likely to spread the word. By creating a positive working environment for your team, you increase the likelihood of staff referrals. It can even be worth rewarding staff who spread the word about vacancies.

Reward excellence

If the staff are getting glowing feedback from customers. Offer incentives, it could be an individual or team prize, such as gift vouchers or a perks scheme.

For help and advice on related hospitality matters, please call us today.