Following the success of a small in-house trial event at the Leicestershire Cares office, the Altogether Now Project were thrilled to be invited into Hinckley & Rugby Building Society to deliver a full pop-up lunch café for staff. What began as a simple idea to cook jacket potatoes for colleagues and volunteers quickly grew into something much bigger and much more exciting.
That first mini “Together We Spud” session had been such a hit that Hinckley & Rugby reached out and asked if we would bring the concept into their business. The demand continued to grow, and on the day of the event an incredible 56 members of staff came along to enjoy a freshly prepared lunch.
The pop-up café offered staff a choice of jacket potatoes topped with homemade vegetable curry, homemade coleslaw, or classic cheese and beans. Three young people from the Altogether Now Project volunteered to run the event from start to finish, taking full ownership of the experience with support from the Leicestershire Cares staff. Their responsibilities included designing the menu, preparing food, taking orders, serving customers, and keeping the workspace clean and safe throughout the session.
Thanks to our spin off on SpudMan, I was able to use examples of that day and the fact I've got experience working not only in the kitchen but also as a team
Altogether Now Participant, after recently attending a job interview
This hands-on opportunity helped the young participants develop a wide range of valuable skills. They strengthened their teamwork by supporting one another through a fast-paced lunchtime rush and developed strong communication skills while taking orders, speaking with staff and coordinating tasks. They also gained customer service experience by delivering friendly and professional interactions, and they built their computer and design skills during the creation of the menu. The event gave them practical experience in food preparation, cooking, and food hygiene, as well as a deeper understanding of health and safety through managing hot equipment, organising the workspace and maintaining cleanliness. They also practised important time management skills by working within a strict lunchtime window and developed problem-solving skills as they adapted to increasing demand.
The event was a huge success, with staff offering countless compliments about the food and the professionalism of the young volunteers. By the end of the session, the young people were tired but incredibly proud of what they had achieved. They served nearly 60 staff members, managed a real café environment and demonstrated responsibility, initiative and teamwork throughout.
The team prepared and served a delicious lunch of jacket potatoes with a variety of toppings and refreshments, all planned and delivered with enthusiasm and professionalism.
It was a wonderful opportunity for colleagues to connect, share a meal, and support a meaningful project that empowers young people through real-world experience.
Hinckley & Rugby Building Society Representative
A massive thank you to Hinckley & Rugby Building Society for inviting us in, hosting the event and giving our young people such a meaningful opportunity to experience the workplace. The continued support helps empower our participants to grow, gain confidence and experience real-world responsibility in a supportive environment. Also a huge thank you to the individuals who made a donation to our charity after enjoying their spud!
For more information about the Altogether Now Project and events like this, please contact Ross Cox ross@leicestershirecares.co.uk