Lifetime partners with So Let's Talk

Building a resilient hospitality workforce, together.

The world of hospitality is incredibly rewarding, but let's be honest – it comes with its own unique set of pressures. Our ambition is to empower every hospitality professional to not just succeed, but to truly thrive.

That's why we're announcing a game-changing new partnership with So Let’s Talk, the leading not-for-profit dedicated to fostering mental wellbeing across our amazing sector.

This is massive. Through this groundbreaking collaboration, 5,000 Lifetime learners are set to gain immediate and sustained access to tailored mental health resources and dedicated support, and all those who sign up from hereon in will gain access from day one.

Addressing hospitality industry challenges head on

We've been deeply rooted in the hospitality sector for years, and we know the reality. The demanding pace and unique challenges often lead to significant stress, burnout, and an alarming 80% turnover rate. This constant churn isn't just a business problem; it puts immense strain on individuals and entire teams.

Comprehensive wellbeing learning plans designed specifically for the unique demands of our industry help to combat this. And that's just the start. As our partnership grows, individuals on our Hospitality Leadership programmes will also unlock advanced, specialised support, equipping them to guide their own teams confidently on mental wellbeing.

We’re proud to partner with Lifetime to support thousands of learners as they start their careers—helping them prioritise their mental health from the outset.

Paddy Howley, Founder of So Let's Talk

 

Elevating The Academy experience: skills and wellbeing, together

Our partnership with So Let’s Talk perfectly aligns with Lifetime’s core belief: creating real-life learning opportunities that genuinely go beyond traditional training. The Academy by Lifetime is designed to prepare learners for the real demands of hospitality work. But we know technical skills alone aren't enough for lasting success. Mental wellbeing is critical, especially for apprentices and early-career professionals balancing work and learning.

As Matthew Summerbell, Hospitality Operations Director at Lifetime, puts it:

“This partnership with So Let's Talk is genuinely transformative. We're not just teaching practical skills; we're empowering our learners with the emotional resilience they need to build truly sustainable, fulfilling careers in this incredible industry. It’s about building a workforce that thrives, not just survives.”

"As someone who's spent a lifetime in kitchens and hospitality, I can tell you firsthand: the difference good mental health support makes is immeasurable. I’ve seen the toll when it's missing. Our industry is challenging, sometimes even gruelling, and that's when we need the most help and support. So much can go unsaid, unanswered or ignored." 

"By talking about our problems, we can overcome them. This partnership means Lifetime and So Let’s Talk are not only providing vital resources and guidance to those starting their careers but also helping to ensure that hospitality professionals are equipped with the tools to support themselves and others throughout their working lives. It’s about ensuring they have long, happy careers – and lives – in our fantastic industry." 

Joe Hurd, The Academy Ambassador