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The Manorview Hotels and Leisure Group announced it has donated £10,000 to the Scottish Licensed Trade Benevolent Society (BEN).
The BEN offers financial, social and emotional support to those who have worked in the licensed and hospitality trade. It currently estimates that around 100,000 hospitality workers in Scotland could lose their livelihoods following the pandemic.
The charity said it has spoken to many hospitality workers who are facing financial hardship, and since the end of March, it has donated over £37,000 in one-off grants to help workers pay bills or buy essentials.
The Manorview group has now donated to the charity, in light of the industry “feeling the effects” of what could be a five-month business interruption period.
In its latest update, the hotel group said it is aware there are “worrying and uncertain times ahead” for workers in the industry.
Its donated funds will help the charity continue to help workers affected by the pandemic, after its reserves have “felt the impact” of the crisis, particularly as fundraising events have been cancelled.
In light of this, the organisation launched an emergency Covid-19 appeal, which Manorview’s donations will go towards.
Steve Graham, chairman of the Manorview Hotels and Leisure Group, said: “We’re in a fortunate position that we can help others. We’re also hearing distressing stories about people struggling to cope financially.
“There’s a hugely rich, diverse and talented workforce out there and they ensure Scottish hospitality is renowned all over the world.”
He added: “It’s an industry where people learn many valuable skills and have fulfilling careers. Our team care about their friends and colleagues in the industry, and we all support The BEN and their crucial work in providing emotional, social and financial support.
“There’s a long road ahead for all of us in the industry. We want to give some hope that we can not only survive but thrive and come out of this stronger.”
Chris Gardner, CEO of the BEN Society, said: “We thank Steve and the Manorview team for their tremendously generous donation which will help the charity continue with the critical work we do, now, more so than ever.
“In these challenging times for all businesses we are most grateful that the BEN is still in your focus. On behalf of the dozens of needy people throughout the drinks and hospitality trade we have helped we thank you.”
