Team GB Squad Member, Connor Ringrose (Ringrose Butchers) chats to us about his involvement with The Burnt Chef Project, aiming to tackle the stigma of mental health in the hospitality industry.

Q: Tell me about the Burnt Chef Project (BCP).

The project is a charity opening up a conversation about mental health within the hospitality industry. They’re aiming to tackle the stigma that’s often associated with mental health challenges.

They exist for both employees and employers and aim to shine a light on what kind of environments we should expect to work in and what we shouldn’t accept.

Q: How do you see this project being important for those in butchery?

In our industry, especially in the UK, there’s very much a 'man up’, ‘don’t worry about it’ attitude. I disagree with it. I don't think it's healthy or what’s needed, and I don't think it's doing anything positive for our industry.

We need to break away from this attitude. Yes, it can be a high-pressure industry, with long hours and challenging conditions but we need to change our response to all of this.

I’m passionate that we need to see collective change and I’m trying to lead and play a part in this through the work I'm doing with the project.

Q: How important is this to you?

Incredibly important.

I’ve been around people close to me who have really suffered with their mental health. I’ve seen how difficult it can be and how much people need support during these times.

At times the industry does almost the opposite to support these people, which is why I’m so passionate about this. Hopefully at some point we can see a real difference made.

While I think we are waking up to these issues – particularly since covid – there is still a long way to go.

Q: In your ideal world, what would a workplace look like that’s better supporting people’s mental health?

I think it starts with understanding. It's always going to be a high pressure and a high stress work environment. That is the nature of what we do. But I think you can do a lot to negate that for people.

Just giving people the time and space to talk. Having somebody above you engage with you, so that you feel seen and feel heard. People will feel like - OK, I've given it to somebody who can do something with this.

Q: How can someone learn more about BCP or connect with you to chat further?

I'm always open to connecting on this. If you head to my Instagram page (instagram.com/butcherringrose) you can find my email or you can private message me on the channel.

The Burnt Chef Project via their website has a number of great resources.

They offer a number of training courses for managers on a range of things like how to help employees who might be going through gambling problems, substance abuse etc.

They also have direct lines for employers and employees if immediate support is needed.

Q&A: BUTCHERY & MENTAL HEALTH, “WE NEED TO CHANGE OUR RESPONSE”