Manchester’s night-time economy adviser to host open discussion with employers

Are you an employer or operator working in the night-time economy? Greater Manchester’s night-time economy adviser Sacha Lord wants to hear your views.

Last month, he met employees to listen to their concerns. He was told that long hours, late nights and alcohol are taking their toll on their wellbeing and that they would like to see some sort of support and guidance initiative introduced.

Tipping was identified as an important issue, with employees revealing huge disparities in the way gratuities are split between serving staff and back of house teams at different venues.

One waitress revealed she could take home up to £150 in cash tips on a Saturday night at a previous job – but of the £300 card tips she earned each month, she would only see £16 in her pay packet.

Now Sacha is holding an open discussion for employers and operators in the night-time economy.

“Last month I held a listening exercise with employees who work in the night-time economy in Greater Manchester. The exercise was so successful that I am delighted to announce I will be repeating this every couple of months. We touched on many topics, including tipping, safety, travel and mental health.

“By holding a reciprocal event for the employers and operators, I am hoping this will enable me to carry on listening to what’s working for you, what isn’t working, and to hear what improvements you would like to see within the industry.”

Sacha is keen not only for voices of the hospitality industry to be heard, but for those who work in other aspects of the night-time economy to speak up. This could include people who work in the NHS or police staff working night shifts.

“When you think of night-time workers, your immediate thoughts go to those working in late night bars and clubs, but there are a great deal of other jobs that involve working late into the night.

“A big one for me are the doctors and nurses working late night shifts within the NHS. I want to make sure their thoughts and opinions are also accounted for.”

The event is being held at Albert’s Didsbury, a venue which has been under fire in the past for tipping unfairness. By holding the event there, Sacha hopes it will encourage more transparency in the industry so that both customers and staff know exactly where tips are going.

Join Sacha at Albert’s Didsbury on 13th September at 2pm. Please message @sacha_lord on Instagram to confirm your attendance.