Virtual Manchester tip jar launched to help servers, chefs and bartenders in their hour of need

There is now a new way for foodies to send virtual tips to staff at their favourite Manchester restaurants and bars to show their support as the sector continues to suffer.

Called Tipjar, the online tipping system has been created to help Manchester’s hospitality staff as people begin to lose zero-hour contracts and struggle to make ends meet as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

As new research shows some publicans estimate having to lay off 75% of their staff, it provides people in Manchester a way to donate directly to bar and restaurant workers in need.

Set up by BrewDog’s retail director James Brown, Tipjar is providing a way to support hospitality staff during their hour of need after they have been let down by the government this week.

“This industry built so many of us, we wanted to do what we could to help in return, and we had access to the technology to do so,” said James.

“We have partnered with Hospitality Action and have built a platform for businesses and communities to donate funds for workers in their city or town, or if they want to raise money for staff in their specific local pub they can apply to do so.”

100% of donations to the Hospitality Workers Emergency Fund will go straight to the charity Hospitality Action and be distributed amongst hospitality staff currently facing hugely daunting prospects of financial insecurity.

People who want to help can visit the website or scan a bespoke QR code to make a donation.