Looking after our housekeeping family

Lisa Williams, national chair of the UKHA, stresses why we should support each other beyond the workplace.

Housekeeping is often called the heart of hospitality. Every day, housekeeping teams work tirelessly behind the scenes to create safe, clean, and welcoming environments for guests.

We take pride in caring for others, but it is equally important that we take care of ourselves and our colleagues. Over the past few years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of hospitality employees experiencing challenges outside of work. Financial pressures, family difficulties, caring responsibilities, relationship breakdowns, bereavement, anxiety, and stress can affect anyone, regardless of their role or experience.

At The Grand, we are seeing more and more team members coming forward to discuss issues they are facing at home. This demonstrates the importance of creating a workplace culture where people feel comfortable speaking openly and seeking support when they need it.

One area I feel strongly about is the need for more hotels to invest in Mental Health First Aiders. Just as we train people to respond to physical emergencies, we should also have trained colleagues who can recognise when someone may be struggling emotionally and guide them towards appropriate support. Mental Health First Aiders are not counsellors or therapists, but they provide an important first point of contact. They offer a listening ear, help reduce stigma, and can signpost colleagues to professional services and resources. In an industry where people often work long hours under pressure, having that support available can make a significant difference.

Mental Health Awareness Week provides an excellent opportunity to start conversations, raise awareness, and remind people that they are not alone. The week encourages employers and employees alike to focus on wellbeing, connection, and support. However, mental health should not only be discussed during one week of the year. It should be part of everyday workplace culture. The hospitality industry has made great progress in recognising the importance of wellbeing, but there is still more that can be done. By investing in training, creating supportive environments, and encouraging open conversations, we can help ensure that no colleague feels isolated when facing personal challenges. Alongside workplace support, there are organisations dedicated to helping hospitality professionals through difficult times.

One of the most respected is Hospitality Action, a charity that supports people working throughout the hospitality sector. Hospitality Action offers confidential assistance with:

• Mental health and emotional wellbeing
• Financial hardship and debt concerns
• Family and relationship difficulties
• Bereavement support
• Addiction and recovery services
• Counselling and specialist advice

The charity also provides practical support and grants for eligible individuals experiencing financial hardship or unexpected life challenges. If you or someone you know in hospitality is struggling, support is available through Hospitality Action. Their free and confidential 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme helpline can be reached on 0808 802 0282.

Whether you are dealing with mental health concerns, financial difficulties, family issues, stress, bereavement, or simply need someone to talk to, trained advisors are available to listen and help. As members of the housekeeping family, we look after guests every day. We check every detail, solve problems, and ensure others feel comfortable and cared for. We should show the same care and compassion to our colleagues.

By continuing to support Mental Health Awareness Week, promoting Mental Health First Aiders, and raising awareness of organisations such as Hospitality Action, we can build a stronger, healthier, and more supportive hospitality industry for everyone. Because behind every uniform is a person, and every person deserves support when they need it most.

Let me know your thoughts.

Sharing the moment

Readers will know that Lisa has faced her own health battle, with her typical determination and the support of many people, including staff at The Grand York, where she is director of housekeeping. She says it’s an exceptional company – and that takes exceptional people to make a difference.

Recently, Lisa marked three years in remission, although hospital visits are still part of her life away from work. The anniversary was not forgotten, and these beautiful flowers arrived at her desk, courtesy of hotel manager Shekhar Grover and general manager Adam Dyke. Lisa says: “Moments like this truly make you feel valued and remind you why people stay loyal to great leaders and organisations. Compassion, kindness and support during difficult times never go unnoticed. Managers like this deserve recognition for the care they show their teams, not just professionally, but personally too.”