Sign the pledge and shape the future of hospitality

“We are a group of 70 female chefs and hospitality workers, and we need you to know that we are tired.”

Those words opened an open letter published in February 2025, signed by 70 female chefs and hospitality professionals. Spearheaded by Sally Abé and backed by industry leaders including Anna Haugh, Chantelle Nicholson, Poppy O'Toole, Dara Klein, Joké Bakare, Pip Lacey and Selin Kiazim, the letter described an industry they love as “systematically flawed” and called for urgent, meaningful change.

The response was overwhelming. Hospitality leaders, operators, trade bodies and suppliers rallied behind the message. But words alone aren’t enough. The industry needs action - clear, measurable, accountable action.

That’s why, at HRC 2026, a new 10-point pledge will be officially launched, setting out practical commitments that businesses of all sizes can adopt to improve working conditions, progression and representation for women across the sector.

Sign the pledge now and join a growing movement of hospitality professionals who believe that the future of this industry depends on the talent of all the people within it.

 

Sally Abé

If a restaurant cannot produce intricate, haute cuisine without abusing or exploiting its staff, it raises the question: should it exist at all?
Sally Abé

 

What you’re committing to

Women are the backbone of hospitality, yet their experiences too often include inequality, insecurity and silence. This industry pledge is a united promise to change that. By signing, hospitality leaders commit to actively improving working conditions, progression and protection for women across the sector - and to being held accountable for real, visible progress.

  1. We commit to zero tolerance on harassment, bullying and discrimination.
  2. We commit to fair pay and equal promotion pathways.
  3. We commit to safe, respectful and properly managed workplaces.
  4. We commit to supporting flexible ways of working wherever this can be achieved and we encourage open conversations to explore options that work for the organisation and individuals. We acknowledge that flexibility looks different across roles, responsibilities and various teams.
  5. We commit to supporting pregnancy, parenthood and return-to-work transitions.
  6. We commit to women’s health awareness, from menopause to mental wellbeing.
  7. We commit to active mentorship, sponsorship and leadership development.
  8. We commit to inclusive recruitment and unbiased progression.
  9. We commit to funded training, skills development and confidence-building.
  10. We commit to driving sustained progress in the representation of women in head chef and senior kitchen leadership roles, helping to build a more balanced and inclusive future for UK hospitality.

Sign the Pledge

Whether you’re an executive chef, a restaurant owner, an HR director, a supplier, a student or an ally, your signature matters. Add your name and commit to building a hospitality industry where women can thrive.