"There are people who've been ostracised by mainstream society and not given the opportunities we've been able to provide for them in the workplace." What a year it's been for chef and social entrepreneur Chris Hanson.
12 months ago the lease for Blend Kitchen's café in Sheffield City Centre was coming to an end. After two "amazing years" serving great food and giving training and employment opportunities to people, Blend needed help to move to a new home.
And there was more at risk than the tasty, wonderful food it serves. Blend gives training, education and employment opportunities to people including adults with learning disabilities, people diagnosed with mental health conditions, parents returning to work, people who have experienced homelessness or substance abuse, and more. Lots of traditional employers can't support people in the way Blend can, Chris explains.
What a lovely story this is. Despite the challenges of the past year, the generosity of businesses, supporters, funders and the public means Blend has been able to take on and fit out amazing new premises.
In this episode Chris describes:
Also in this episode: a welcome return to the show for Jay Bhayani of Bhanyani HR and Employment Law. Employers and employees have numerous questions as we embark on a "roadmap" out of lockdown and restrictions ease, such as:
Jay talks through these issues, and describes her firm's expansion to Leicester.
Timings: