WalkAgainstStigma in aid of The Burnt Chef Project

 

BROTHERS COMMIT TO SEVEN
MARATHONS IN SEVEN DAYS TO
RAISE MONEY FOR HOSPITALITY
MENTAL HEALTH

 

Brothers John & David Ray from Southampton have pledged to undertake the mammoth multiple marathon challenge during October, when they will be walking the length and breadth of Hampshire, Sussex, Brighton and Hove as they take on this epic challenge of walking seven marathons, 184 miles, in just seven days.

 

The pair are hoping to raise vital funds for the ongoing support of the hospitality workers mental health. All money raised will be going to The Burnt Chef Project, a not for profit organisation who provide support services and training resources to support the mental health of hospitality workers.

 

The circular route around Hampshire and bordering counties will see the pair take on one marathon each day for seven days. The pair will be joined by The Mayor of Southampton on 11th October to start their epic journey from Novotel Southampton, and make their way across to Winchester where they will have day two started by The Mayor of Winchester and the Mayor of Brighton on day five.. They will trek across the south coast taking in historic sights along the way the duo will pass; Mottisfont House, Winchester Cathedral, Jane Austen House, Guildford Castle, Polesden Lacey House, Wakehurst, Devil's Dyke, Brighton Sea Front, Worthing Pier, Arundel Castle, Portsmouth, Lee on solent, Royal Victoria Country Park before arriving back to Southampton on the 17th October.  The Accor Group have kindly supported the incredible challenge with overnight accommodation along the route for the brothers.

John Ray, 46 a Multi-Hotel night manager at the Southampton Novotel, Ibis and Ibis Budget said ‘I’ve worked in the hospitality industry on and off since I left school, always returning to an industry I love. I’ve seen first hand the impact it can have on people’s mental health. Over the years, I’ve known so many struggle including myself  and it’s only now, with The Burnt Chef Project leading the way, that I can see actual change being incited within our great industry. I can’t wait to get on the road with my big brother and start raising awareness for the future of hospitality and do my part to eradicate the stigma of mental health. It feels amazing to have such a supportive network behind me from The Burnt Chef Project,  My GM (Patina Farnham), my wife and family, those agreeing to allow pit stops and all the hotels kindly offer overnight accommodation, it’s overwhelming to see such positivity from people wanting to see a better future for hospitality.”

 

Army veteran, David Ray (54) said “When John told me he was planning this, I thought he was mad! But after I left the army, I went into hospitality and trained to become a chef so I understand the pressures people face within the industry. COVID-19 has really hit hospitality and people are really struggling now more than ever with their mental health. As time went on, I knew I needed to walk side by side with my brother, raising awareness and funds for this amazing cause.”

 

Kris Hall, Founder of The Burnt Chef Project said “When John got in touch to tell us about the challenge he wanted to undertake, we were in awe of his determination. What a challenge to undertake! He’s been so dedicated to the organisation and training that’s gone into this, he’s really a prime Ambassador for our work. Without people like John and David we wouldn’t be able to continue our valued work in the hospitality sector where it’s needed now more than ever. We wish him all the best with the challenge and look forward to joining John and David cross the finish line on 17th October in Southampton.

 

You can follow the pair through their instagram and facebook links @walkagainststigma2021

 

The Burnt Chef Project builds the capability of owners, line managers and employees by providing training to enhance the awareness of mental health and provide supportive skills to management teams to open conversation and support to those who are experiencing ill mental health. Their services include a 24/7 support service for hospitality workers,

 

●      The Burnt Chef Journal Podcast

●      The Burnt Chef Support Service

●      The Burnt Chef Academy

●      The Burnt Chef Training Courses

●      The Burnt Chef Merchandise

●      The Burnt Chef Audit

 

Kris Hall, Founder of the Burnt Chef Project said ‘By providing these services we are challenging the stigma of mental health whilst beginning to create a culture of care and compassion which will improve recruitment opportunities whilst also reducing the turnover rates and ensuring that together we pave the way to a healthier and sustainable industry.”