Hospitality workers from across the industry have reported an unprecedented rise in mental health struggles based on a recent survey conducted by UK charity Hospitality Action.
The survey, fully supported by the Institute, took place in June this year, and revealed a significant increase in the proportion of hospitality workers reporting mental health issues in their careers, rising from just over half (56%) in 2018, 64% in 2020, to more than three-quarters (76%) in 2024.
Over two-thirds (69%) said that they have experienced mental health challenges in the last five years since the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis, half (49%) in the last two years alone. Managing a good work/life balance (60%) was cited as the primary issue, closely followed by mental health (44%) and finances (42%).
A key concern for employers should be how opinion is divided regarding whether hospitality organisations adequately support employee wellbeing.
In response, the charity is urging the industry to review its mental health and wellbeing provisions to substantially enhance protocols and initiatives to support employees better and nurture an environment in which it is safe to voice concerns without fear.