The CRUMBS Project wins prestigious The Gregory De La Peña-Hall MIH Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Employer of the Year Award 2022

The CRUMBS Project has been recognised by the Institute of Hospitality (IoH) for being an outstanding employer and equality, diversity, and inclusion advocate.

Ursula Boardman and Lee Whalley

At the Annual IoH Dinner & Awards event held at the Hilton London Bankside, which aims to recognise and celebrate the best from across the global Hospitality Family, The CRUMBS Project received The Gregory De La Peña-Hall MIH Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Employer of the Year Award 2022 (SME).

CRUMBS aims to change the lack of opportunities for disadvantaged adults in the hospitality industry in the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) area through structured educational programmes of practical vocational training and personal development, providing professional and life-skill opportunities to boost confidence and self-esteem for work and independent living.

CRUMBS Trainees Hannah and Antony

The award was presented to CRUMBS Head of Centre, Ursula Boardman, along with colleague Lee Whalley, Head of Professional Training, by The Rt Hon The Viscount Thurso FIH MI and recognises the way CRUMBS have created an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and valued and people with disabilities are not treated less favourably because of their protected characteristics.

During the event, IoH CEO Robert Richardson FIH said: “It was fantastic to see so many members and wider hospitality family gather together to celebrate the considerable achievements of our industry and the people within it. We wanted to showcase and celebrate the best the global hospitality industry has to offer, across all segments, and we did just that.”

“We were overwhelmed by the fantastic calibre of all the award nominations this year and it was fantastic to recognise the highly skilled talent we have” commented Robert. “The winners truly deserve our adoration.”

Fiona and David, part of the team of professional trainers at The CRUMBS Project

CRUMBS Head of Centre, Ursula Boardman, who accepted the award on behalf of CRUMBS said:

“We pride ourselves on encouraging and supporting all trainees and staff team members, ensuring fair treatment and opportunity for all. An inclusive environment can only be created once we are more aware of our unconscious biases and have learned how to manage them. This award from the Institute of Hospitality recognises what makes CRUMBS distinct and at the same time also values the contribution our charity makes to the Hospitality industry”.  

Celebrity Chef Brian Turner with Ursula Boardman and Lee Whalley
CRUMBS volunteers Sarah and Jake