Charity to help troubled chefs

Trade charity Hospitality Action has launched a new initiative to help companies tackle the number of chefs that are affected by alcohol and drug problems.

The Ark Foundation has launched the Ark for Business - aimed at giving companies in hospitality help in developing their alcohol and drug policy and providing management training to aid prevention.

The Ark for Business was launched this month at the House of Commons by Hospitality Action.

The Ark Foundation was founded by ex-Ritz hotel head chef Michael Quinn MBE in 2001 to help young people fight the temptation of drugs and excessive alcohol.

Hospitality Action chief executive Penny Moore said: "The benefits to the individual are clear but there are also significant advantages for businesses in terms of reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, less risk of accidents in the workplace and building their reputation as a caring and responsible employer.

"Alcohol and drug addiction are growing problems in today's society and can happen to anyone in a business, from commis chefs through to board directors."

The Ark Foundation has been part of Hospitality Action, the hospitality industry's benevolent charity, since 2003 and Hospitality Action president Bob Cotton - also chief executive of the British Hospitality Association - joined Richard Caborn and Alastair Stewart at the launch.

For more information visit www.hospitalityaction.org.uk