The research, released today by hospitality jobs board Caterer.com, reveals that by engaging this skills pool, employers could also meet increasing customer demands for socially conscious dining. The social impact of a business (85%) is rated as one of the top considerations, alongside outstanding hygiene ratings (94%) and being waste conscious (91%).

Almost half (42%) of the population claim they would more likely visit a restaurant if they knew it employed ex-offenders or the homeless, so engaging staff from vulnerable groups can deliver a significant return for hospitality bosses, helping with their talent pipeline and meeting customer requirements too.

Meanwhile, around two-thirds (64%) of consumers believe hospitality businesses can play a role in helping ex-offenders and those who have experienced homelessness back into the community.To help the industry bridge the talent gap and better integrate these groups into the hospitality workforce, Caterer.com has partnered with social entrepreneur Alex Head and industry charity Only A Pavement Away, who each provide gateways for vulnerable groups to find employment and receive support, training and guidance to rebuild their lives, confidence and self-worth.

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