Catering and Hospitality Students Explore Mental Health in the Industry

Our Catering and Hospitality students recently welcomed representatives from The Burnt Chef Project for an important session focused on mental health and wellbeing within the catering and hospitality industry.

The Burnt Chef Project is a charity dedicated to tackling mental health issues within the hospitality sector, partnered with The Hilton Foundation. Two industry experts visited the College to speak with students about the challenges of working in what can be a fast-paced and stressful environment.

During the session, students explored what mental health means and the importance of not suffering in silence. They discussed ways to manage stress and looked at some of the pressures that can come with working in the catering and hospitality industry.

The experts also shared advice on how to support colleagues who may be struggling with their mental health. This included considering how managers, such as head chefs, can support their teams, as well as how colleagues can look out for one another.

Students were introduced to practical tips for coping with stress, including the CAN DO approach:

Connect – Stay connected with others.
Activity – Keep active.
Notice – Pay attention to how you are feeling.
Discover – Find things that interest and support you.
Offer – Offer support to others.

The session also highlighted the support available through The Burnt Chef Project, including mental health courses designed specifically for people working in the hospitality industry.

The visit gave students the opportunity to learn more about looking after their own mental health, supporting others and the importance of creating a healthier and more supportive culture in the workplace.

With practical industry experience at the heart of their course, sessions like this help our Catering and Hospitality students prepare for the realities of working in the sector – including giving them the confidence and knowledge to look after themselves and be there for others.

Interested in a career in catering and hospitality?

Find out more about our courses and start your journey with Rotherham College.