CH&CO is proactively challenging unconscious bias with the introduction of training for all team members across the diverse catering and hospitality business.

Launched on International Women’s Day (IWD), the training supports IWD’s global campaign #BreakTheBias that encourages action to call out gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping. As well as challenging gender bias, CH&CO’s training and communications programme encompasses all forms of unconscious bias.

The online training course, supported by a fact sheet, is designed to help people understand what unconscious bias is and its influences and impact, as well as explaining the different types of unconscious bias and providing strategies to reduce its effect.

An internal communications campaign is supporting the launch of the training programme and stimulating engagement and conversation amongst team members.

Allister Richards, COO, CH&CO, said: “We have a responsibility to increase and broaden our efforts in EDI and we are committed to leading the way towards a more diverse and inclusive CH&CO as we continue to rebuild the business. The launch of the unconscious bias training for all team members is a significant step forward.

“We’ve created a framework that will help our people recognise and challenge bias within themselves and our teams. As uncomfortable as people may find it, we all have unconscious bias, even if we don’t realise it. I’ve completed the online course and there are some real ‘aha’ moments to be had. This important training and communications programme gives our people the tools and time to reflect, learn, challenge and ultimately create positive change.”