Institute of Hospitality launches better hiring toolkit to improve recruitment in the UK hospitality sector

The Institute of Hospitality (IoH), in partnership with industry leaders and supported by the UK Government’s All-Party Parliamentary Group for Modernising Employment, has unveiled a new Better Hiring Toolkit designed specifically for the hospitality sector. This initiative aims to provide practical and simplified guidance to hospitality businesses across the UK to enhance the recruitment process.

Hospitality is a vital part of the UK economy, employing approximately 3.5 million people and contributing nearly £100 billion annually. With the sector’s scale and economic importance in mind, the toolkit offers comprehensive advice on the recruitment process, including how to vet potential new employees effectively. This includes guidance on verifying qualifications and understanding employers’ legal obligations related to modern slavery and other employment standards.

The project brings together key organisations such as the Better Hiring Institute (BHI), Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA), Disclosure Scotland, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), and Reed Screening. These groups collectively provide their expertise to ensure that the toolkit reflects UK best practices and supports ethical and responsible hiring within the sector.

Speaking to Public Sector Catering, Robert Richardson FIH MI, chief executive of the Institute of Hospitality, highlighted the importance of the initiative: “As proud members of the steering body for the UK Government’s Modernising Employment All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), the Institute of Hospitality is delivering on its commitment to building a more equitable and progressive employment landscape for hospitality professionals.

“Our collaboration with colleagues and Reed Screening to develop the Better Hiring Toolkit for Hospitality is a meaningful step towards consistent, high-quality hiring practices that recognise the value of people across our sector. Hospitality is more than just a job — it’s a profession with real prospects, and this toolkit helps lay the groundwork for a more inclusive, respected, and sustainable future.

“As the strong voice for hospitality professional development, not just in the UK but globally, we will continue to champion the professional development changes needed to ensure everyone in our industry has the opportunity to thrive.”

The Better Hiring Toolkit is available free of charge, providing an accessible resource for hospitality businesses aiming to uphold and improve recruitment standards. It represents a coordinated effort between government and industry bodies to support a sector that plays a critical role in the UK economy and workforce.