Vegan and Soya-Free: Plant-Based Options for Those with a Soya Allergy

Following a vegan diet is already a thoughtful and mindful lifestyle choice, but navigating it with a soya allergy can make things more complicated. 

Soya is a staple in many vegan products—from tofu and tempeh to soya milk and protein powders. 

However, being vegan and soya-free is entirely possible—with a little extra planning and ingredient awareness.

In this post, we’ll explore vegan-friendly foods that are naturally soya-free, common pitfalls to avoid, and some delicious alternatives you can incorporate into your plant-based diet.

Why Is Soya So Common in Vegan Food?

Soya is high in protein, versatile, and widely available, which is why it’s often used as a meat and dairy substitute. You’ll find it in:

Tofu and tempeh

Soya milk, yoghurt, and cheese

Vegan meat alternatives (like mince or burgers)

Protein bars and powders

Some processed snacks and baked goods

For those with a soya allergy or sensitivity, this can feel limiting—but don’t worry, there are plenty of other nutritious, satisfying options.

Soya-Free Vegan Protein Sources

Protein is often the biggest concern, but there are several excellent soya-free sources of plant protein:

Legumes (other than soya)

Lentils (red, green, brown)

Chickpeas

Black beans

Kidney beans

Butter beans

These are perfect for curries, soups, stews, burgers, and salads.

Nuts and Seeds

Almonds, cashews, walnuts

Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia, flaxseed

Great in baking, smoothies, and snacks—or for making your own plant-based milk.

Vegetables

While lower in protein, some vegetables like spinach, peas, broccoli, and sweetcorn offer small boosts to your intake.

Whole Grains

Quinoa (a complete protein)

Oats

Brown rice

Buckwheat

Amaranth

Pairing grains with beans or lentils can help round out your amino acid profile.

Mushrooms

Varieties like portobello, oyster, and shiitake are rich in flavour and make great meat alternatives.

Soya-Free Vegan Dairy Alternatives

Thankfully, the market has expanded to include plenty of non-soya dairy substitutes:

Milk Alternatives

Oat milk (UK favourite! We have some in our fridge)

Almond milk

Coconut milk

Rice milk

Hemp milk

Cashew milk

Always check for added vitamins and calcium.

Cheese & Yoghurt Alternatives

Look for coconut-based or nut-based products (like those from brands such as Violife, Koko, or Nush).

Watch Out For Hidden Soya

Even with whole foods, it’s worth reading labels carefully. Soya can crop up in:

“Natural flavours” or “lecithin” (check if it’s soya lecithin)

Bread and bakery products

Vegan convenience meals

Chocolate and snacks

Many UK brands now label major allergens clearly, so look for “contains soya” or “soya-free” statements.

Soya-Free Vegan Meat Alternatives

If you miss the convenience of vegan meats, look for these soya-free options:

Seitan: Made from wheat gluten (avoid if coeliac or gluten-sensitive)

Jackfruit: Ideal for pulled “pork” or taco-style fillings

Mushroom-based products: Some brands use fungi as the base for burger patties or sausages

Pea protein: Some vegan meats are now made from yellow pea protein instead of soya

Brands like THIS™, Future Farm, and Heck (check labels) offer options in UK supermarkets.

Meal Ideas for Soya-Free Vegans

Here are a few simple, satisfying meals to try:

Chickpea & spinach curry with coconut milk

Lentil shepherd’s pie topped with mashed potato

Stuffed sweet potatoes with black beans and avocado

Oat and nut energy balls for on-the-go snacking

Grilled portobello burgers with vegan mayo and salad

Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and tahini dressing

Final Thoughts

Living soya-free and vegan may feel like a niche path, but it’s a completely achievable and nutritious lifestyle. By focusing on whole foods, checking labels, and experimenting with new ingredients, you can build a varied and satisfying menu without soya.

With growing awareness of allergies and dietary needs, many UK brands and eateries are expanding their allergen-friendly vegan offerings—so expect even more soya-free options in the near future.

Are you following a soya-free vegan diet? Share your favourite meals or product recommendations in the comments—we’d love to hear what’s working for you!

What to Do If You Need to Change Your Establishment’s Menu

Whether you're running a bustling café, a fine dining restaurant, or a cosy pub, there comes a time when your menu needs a refresh. 

Perhaps customer tastes have shifted, ingredients have become harder to source, or you're simply looking to keep things exciting and seasonal. 

Whatever the reason, changing your menu is a big decision—and one that requires careful planning.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you need to change your establishment’s menu:

1. Identify the Reason for the Change

Start by asking why the menu needs updating. Common reasons include:

Falling sales or customer feedback

Rising costs of ingredients

Seasonal availability

Shifting brand focus or target market

New food trends or dietary requirements (e.g. more vegan/gluten-free options)

Understanding the motivation behind the change helps guide the type of changes you make—whether it's a full overhaul or minor tweaks.

2. Review What’s Working—and What Isn’t

Before scrapping any dishes, analyse your current menu:

Top sellers: What do customers rave about?

Low performers: Which dishes are consistently left untouched?

Profit margins: Which items bring in the most revenue after food costs?

Prep time and complexity: Are some items too labour-intensive?

Keep your strong performers, and use insights from underperforming dishes to guide your updates.

3. Involve Your Team

Your kitchen and front-of-house staff have invaluable insight. Involve them in brainstorming new ideas or adapting current offerings. Chefs may suggest ingredient substitutions that maintain quality but cut costs. Servers can relay common customer requests or complaints.

You’ll get better buy-in—and potentially brilliant ideas—when your team is part of the process.

4. Research Trends and Local Preferences

Food trends can spark inspiration, but always consider your core audience. A fine dining menu in London may benefit from different tweaks than a country pub in Yorkshire.

Sources of insight:

Social media and foodie blogs

Competitor menus

Seasonal produce calendars

Customer surveys or comment cards

You might discover that plant-based options, heritage ingredients, or hyper-local sourcing are what your customers crave.

5. Update Your Suppliers and Costings

Menu changes affect your supply chain. Contact suppliers to check availability, lead times, and pricing for any new ingredients. It’s also essential to update your costing sheets to ensure new dishes align with your desired profit margins.

Don’t forget to factor in training, waste reduction, and storage space too.

6. Test New Dishes

Trial new items before launching them fully. This could involve:

Staff tastings for honest feedback

Limited-time specials to gauge customer interest

Small-scale launches during quieter hours

This testing phase helps iron out issues with portion size, prep time, or presentation.

7. Update Your Branding and Marketing Materials

When the new menu is ready, make sure all your materials reflect the change:

Printed menus and chalkboards

Website and online ordering platforms

Social media profiles

Third-party listings (e.g. Google, TripAdvisor, Just Eat)

Tease the new dishes in advance on social media and email newsletters to build excitement.

8. Train Your Team Thoroughly

A successful menu rollout depends on your staff. Provide detailed training on:

New recipes and cooking methods

Ingredients (particularly allergens)

Presentation standards

How to confidently describe dishes to customers

Well-informed, enthusiastic staff can make a huge difference to customer experience.

9. Gather Feedback Post-Launch

After launching the new menu, ask for customer feedback—formally or informally. Monitor sales patterns and reviews. Be ready to make small adjustments as needed.

Sometimes a dish that looks great on paper doesn’t work in practice. Stay flexible.

10. Celebrate the Change

Highlight your new menu with a launch event, social media campaign, or feature in the local press. Reward regulars with a sneak peek or tasting session. Use the change as a positive story that reinforces your brand’s creativity and commitment to quality.

Final Thoughts

Changing your menu is more than swapping out a few dishes—it’s a strategic move that can boost profitability, improve customer satisfaction, and re-energise your team. With proper planning and communication, a refreshed menu can set your establishment up for success for months (or seasons) to come.

How to Promote Your Eating Place on a Budget: Clever & Cost-Effective Ideas

Running a café, restaurant, or takeaway can be immensely rewarding, but marketing often feels like a luxury reserved for businesses with deep pockets. 

The good news? You don’t need a big budget to get your eating place noticed. 

With some creativity, consistency, and local know-how, you can generate buzz without burning through your savings.

Here’s how to promote your food business as cheaply as possible—while still getting real results.

1. Leverage Social Media—Properly

Social media is free to use and incredibly powerful if done right. Focus on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, where food visuals thrive.

Post high-quality photos of your dishes (natural lighting works wonders).

Share behind-the-scenes content—chef prepping, daily specials being made, or funny kitchen moments.

Use relevant hashtags (#FoodieUK, #LondonEats, #HiddenGems) and geotags.

Run giveaways (e.g. “Tag a mate for a chance to win lunch for two!”).

Pro Tip: Post consistently. Even three times a week can build engagement.

2. Claim and Optimise Your Google Business Profile

If people can’t find you online, they won’t visit. Claim your free Google Business Profile and make sure all the details—opening hours, location, menu, photos—are up to date.

Encourage happy customers to leave a review, as strong ratings help your listing appear in local searches (especially “restaurants near me”).

3. Partner with Local Influencers or Bloggers

No need to aim for massive influencers. Micro-influencers (1k–10k followers) in your area often have a more loyal, engaged audience.

Offer them a free meal or sample in exchange for a post or honest review. Look for food bloggers or local lifestyle content creators—you’ll often find them by searching hashtags or location tags on Instagram or TikTok.

4. Offer Referral Incentives

Word-of-mouth is powerful—and free. Give your regulars a reason to bring others.

Example ideas:

“Bring a friend and get 10% off your next visit.”

“Refer a mate, get a free dessert.”

Simple, trackable, and effective.

5. Join Local Facebook Groups and Forums

Local community groups (e.g., town-specific Facebook groups, Nextdoor, or local forums) are excellent places to build awareness.

Be genuinely helpful—don’t just spam adverts. Share special offers, promote local events you're part of, or answer questions about places to eat in the area.

6. Collaborate with Other Small Businesses

Is there a local brewery, coffee roaster, or farm shop nearby? Cross-promote each other’s products or create a joint offer.

Example:

“Enjoy a slice of our homemade cake with locally roasted coffee from Smith & Sons Roasters—only £5 this week.”

You tap into each other’s audiences without spending extra.

7. Host Low-Cost Events or Pop-Ups

Even on a small scale, events get people talking. Think:

Live acoustic music nights

Board game evenings

Local artist pop-ups

Tasting nights or “secret menu” days

These give people a reason to visit—and share the experience on social media.

8. Create a Loyalty Card or Email List

Encourage repeat visits with a simple stamp card or digital loyalty scheme.

Also, collect email addresses (with permission!) and send out monthly updates featuring offers, seasonal menus, or events. Tools like Mailchimp offer free email marketing for small lists.

9. Get Listed on Local Directories and Food Apps

Make sure your eating place is listed on:

TripAdvisor

Yelp

Local tourism websites

Delivery platforms (if you offer takeout)

Many are free to join or offer freemium listings.

10. Don’t Underestimate Good Signage and Word of Mouth

Sometimes, the simplest strategies are the most effective.

Make sure your signage is:

Clear

Well-lit

Visible from the street

And train your team to give excellent service—because a recommendation from a satisfied customer beats any advert.

Final Thoughts

Promoting your eating place doesn’t have to cost the earth. With a little creativity and consistency, you can build a loyal customer base, grow your visibility, and stand out—without spending a fortune.

Start small, track what works, and stay connected to your local community. That’s where real, sustainable success begins.

How to Organise a Quiz Night at Your Pub, Café, Restaurant or Bar – and Raise Funds for Charity

Are you looking to add a lively and rewarding event to your venue’s calendar? 

Hosting a quiz night can draw a great crowd, boost sales, and – best of all – raise money for a good cause. 

Whether you run a cosy café, a bustling bar, or a welcoming pub, restaurant or a hotel, here’s how to pull off a successful charity quiz night that your guests will talk about for weeks.

1. Choose Your Cause

Start by selecting a charity that resonates with you, your team, or your customers. Whether it's a local food bank, a health-related charity, or a national appeal, make it personal. If you're unsure, ask your regulars or run a quick poll on social media.

Tip: Reach out to the chosen charity – they might offer promotional support or donate prizes.

2. Pick the Right Night

Midweek evenings like Tuesdays or Wednesdays tend to work well – they’re quiet enough not to disrupt weekend trade but still busy enough to attract interest. Avoid clashing with major events like big sports matches.

3. Plan the Format

Decide on your structure:

Number of rounds: Typically 5–8 rounds, with 8–10 questions each.

Topics: Mix general knowledge with themed rounds (e.g. film, music, sport, local history).

Bonus rounds: Include a picture round or music clips.

Tie-breaker: Always have a tricky final question just in case.

Optional: Introduce a fun twist like a “Beat the Bartender” round!

4. Set Entry Fees and Fundraising Goals

Charge a small fee per player or team (e.g. £2 per person or £10 per team), with all proceeds going to your chosen charity. You could also include a donation box or raffle on the night to boost fundraising.

5. Promote the Event

Advertise your quiz night across all your channels:

Posters and flyers in your venue

Facebook and Instagram posts/stories

Event listings on your website or local forums

Email newsletters

Mention the charity, prizes, and how people can book.

Pro tip: Add a QR code on posters that links to your booking form or event page.

6. Sort the Practicalities

Make sure you have:

Pens, answer sheets, and clipboards

A mic and speaker system (or good vocal projection!)

Tables arranged with space between teams

A scorekeeper or helper if possible

A running order with clear timings

7. Secure Some Prizes

Ask local businesses to donate items or vouchers in return for a shout-out on the night. Popular prizes include:

Bottles of wine or spirits

Gift vouchers

Free meals

Hampers or goody bags

Even “booby prizes” for the lowest-scoring team can add humour.

8. Host with Energy and Fairness

The quizmaster sets the tone. Be friendly, clear, and fair. A bit of banter can go a long way, but always keep things inclusive and light-hearted. Encourage teams to grab drinks and snacks during the breaks – it’s good for business!

9. Say Thanks and Share the Results

After the event, thank everyone who took part, especially donors and volunteers. Share how much was raised and post pictures from the night on social media. If you plan to run another quiz, tease the next date.

Final Thought

Quiz nights aren’t just great fun – they bring communities together and show that your business cares. Whether it’s your first time hosting or part of a regular calendar, a well-run quiz night can build buzz, fill seats, and make a real difference.

Why World Food Safety Day Matters – And How You Can Help

Keeping Our Food Safe from Farm to Fork

Each year on 7 June, the world comes together to recognise World Food Safety Day, an important reminder that the food we eat should always be safe, nutritious, and prepared in a way that prevents illness. 

Whether you’re a home cook, food business owner, or simply someone who enjoys a good meal, food safety affects all of us—every single day.

What Is World Food Safety Day?

Launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), World Food Safety Day shines a spotlight on preventing, detecting, and managing foodborne risks. It’s a call to action for governments, producers, and consumers alike.

The 2025 theme, "Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected", focuses on the importance of being ready to manage food safety incidents—big or small—and highlights how everyone in the food chain has a role to play.

Why Is Food Safety Important?

Unsafe food can lead to over 200 diseases, from mild gastroenteritis to long-term illnesses. According to the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA), around 2.4 million cases of foodborne illness occur in the UK every year. And while large outbreaks often make the news, many food safety issues begin in our own homes and kitchens.

Food safety isn’t just a public health issue—it’s an economic one, too. Contaminated food can disrupt trade, damage business reputations, and waste valuable resources.

What Can You Do to Support Food Safety?

Here are some simple ways you can mark World Food Safety Day and make a difference:

1. Practice Safe Food Handling at Home

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling food.

Use separate chopping boards for raw meat and vegetables.

Cook foods to the right temperature.

Store leftovers properly—don’t leave food sitting out too long.

2. Check Storage and Expiry Dates

Make a habit of checking use-by and best-before dates, especially on chilled and frozen items. Keep your fridge at 5°C or below.

3. Support Clean and Responsible Food Businesses

Choose local cafés, markets, and food vendors that demonstrate good hygiene. In the UK, you can look up FSA food hygiene ratings before visiting.

4. Spread the Word

Use your platform—be it social media, a blog, or even your family dinner table—to share facts about food safety. Raising awareness is half the battle.

5. Educate Yourself and Others

From allergies to allergens, learn about food labelling, cross-contamination, and how to prevent foodborne illness. The FSA and WHO websites are great places to start.

Let’s Keep Food Safe – Together

Food safety isn’t just the responsibility of inspectors or large manufacturers. It starts with each of us—from the way we shop and store food to how we cook and serve it. On World Food Safety Day, take a moment to reflect on your own habits and help spread the message: Safe food is everyone’s business.

Mark Your Calendar: 7 June – World Food Safety Day

How will you help keep food safe this year? Let us know in the comments or tag us on social media!

https://www.food.gov.uk/food-safety-and-hygiene

https://www.gov.uk/food-safety-your-responsibilities

How to Celebrate National Cheese Day in the UK: Ideas, Recipes & Cheesy Delights

Celebrate National Cheese Day with style! Discover cheesy recipes, UK-made favourites, cheese and drink pairings, and fun ways to mark the occasion.

Say Cheese! Celebrate National Cheese Day the British Way

If there’s one thing that deserves its own holiday, it’s cheese. Rich, creamy, sharp, nutty, or tangy – cheese comes in all shapes, textures, and flavours. That’s why 4th June is a day to celebrate dairy’s most delicious gift: it’s National Cheese Day!

Whether you're a dedicated cheesemonger or a casual cracker-topper, this day is the perfect excuse to explore new varieties, try cheese-based recipes, or simply indulge. Here’s how to celebrate National Cheese Day in true cheesy style – with a UK twist.

1. Sample British Cheeses You Haven’t Tried Yet

Sure, we all love a good cheddar, but the UK has an extraordinary range of artisan and traditional cheeses worth celebrating:

Wensleydale – Light and crumbly, ideal with fruit cake or chutney

Red Leicester – Mild and nutty, perfect for melting

Cornish Yarg – Wrapped in nettles for a unique flavour

Stilton – Britain’s iconic blue cheese, strong and salty

Tunworth – A creamy British Camembert-style soft cheese

Top tip: Visit a local cheesemonger or farmer’s market to support small producers and discover regional gems.

2. Host a Cheese Tasting Night

Turn your love of cheese into a social event! Set up a cheeseboard with a selection of styles: hard, soft, blue, and bloomy rind. Add crackers, fruits, nuts, chutneys, and honeys.

Pair with wine (like a classic red with mature cheddar), craft beer (try an IPA with blue cheese), or even English cider for a rustic combo.

Don’t forget plant-based guests – there are some amazing vegan cheeses from British brands like Honestly Tasty and I AM NUT OK.

3. Cook Something Cheesy

From comfort food to classy nibbles, cheese takes recipes to the next level. Here are a few ideas:

Welsh Rarebit – A posh cheese toastie with ale and mustard

Macaroni Cheese – Make it luxe with Gruyère or Red Leicester

Cheese Soufflé – Impress with this light, fluffy delight

Cheddar Scones – Perfect for a picnic or afternoon tea

Halloumi Skewers – Great on the BBQ if the sun’s out

Share your cheesy creations on Instagram with the hashtag #NationalCheeseDay – and tag us for a shout-out!

4. Visit a UK Cheese Festival or Farm

Why not make it a cheesy day out? Many dairies and farms offer tours, tastings, and events. Look for:

The British Cheese Weekender (usually in May–June)

The Cheese and Chilli Festival (various UK locations)

Tours at places like Quicke’s (Devon) or The Courtyard Dairy (Yorkshire)

You’ll learn how cheese is made, meet passionate producers, and stock up on incredible artisan finds.

5. Make a Cheese-Themed Hamper

Create a gift (for a friend or yourself!) with:

A selection of 3–5 cheeses

Chutney and crackers

A small bottle of wine or ale

A cheese knife or board

A little guide to each cheese

Perfect for a summer picnic or a cosy night in.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're nibbling on a wedge of creamy brie or baking a bubbling dish of cheesy goodness, National Cheese Day is your chance to indulge in one of life’s finest pleasures. So go on – treat yourself to a wheel, a wedge, or a whiff – and celebrate all things cheesy!

What’s Your Favourite Cheese?

Drop a comment below or tag @ThatsFoodAndDrink on social media with your cheesiest celebration yet. We’d love to see your boards, bakes, and bites!

Why Are Pet Food Companies Putting Rice, Seaweed, Carrots and Tomatoes in Cat Food?

If you’ve ever inspected the label on your cat’s food and raised an eyebrow at the inclusion of ingredients like seaweed, carrots, tomatoes or wild rice, you’re not alone. 

For many cat owners, it seems strange. After all, your feline friend is a carnivore, right? 

Yet these plant-based ingredients are increasingly common in modern commercial cat foods, from dry biscuits to gourmet pouches. So why are they there, and do cats even like them?

Let’s unpack this curious trend in pet nutrition.

Cats Are Obligate Carnivores: So What Gives?

First things first: cats are obligate carnivores. This means they must consume meat to thrive. Their bodies are finely tuned to digest and extract nutrients from animal tissue, not plants. 

Unlike omnivores like dogs (or us humans), cats don’t naturally seek out fruit, veg or grains. In the wild, a cat might ingest trace amounts of plant matter via the stomach contents of its prey, but that's about it.

Given that, the idea of feeding a cat wild rice or tomatoes can seem, frankly, a bit daft. And plenty of cat owners report their furry companions picking around those suspicious orange chunks in their dinner. So why do pet food manufacturers persist?

The Marketing Angle: Selling to Humans

The answer, in part, lies in who pet food is really being marketed to: you, the owner. Modern cat food packaging is often designed to appeal to human sensibilities—phrases like “with antioxidant-rich tomatoes” or “with superfood seaweed” are aimed at health-conscious shoppers, not their feline companions.

Many of us now expect our own food to include "functional" ingredients, such as kale, quinoa, chia seeds, etc., so we’re subconsciously drawn to similar features in pet foods. Brands know that a product that looks nutritious to us is more likely to end up in the shopping trolley, even if our cats would rather it didn’t.

Functional Claims: Nutrients and Additives

That said, these ingredients aren’t entirely for show. Some, like carrots and tomatoes, contain antioxidants like beta-carotene and lycopene, which are thought to support immune health. Seaweed is sometimes included as a source of iodine and minerals, and wild rice may be added as a fibre source or alternative carbohydrate. 

However, it's worth noting that the actual quantities used are usually small, and any claimed benefits are often marginal, especially when compared to the essential amino acids, taurine, and fatty acids cats get from meat.

Fillers and Fibre: A Cheap Bulk Option?

Another reason for including these ingredients is cost. Some vegetables and grains act as fillers, helping to bulk out the food without adding much expense. 

They may also be used to aid with texture or binding in dry kibble. While fibre can support digestion in small amounts, too much can reduce the overall protein content, which isn’t ideal for cats.

Do Cats Like Vegetables in Their Food?

The short answer: many don’t. Some cats will eat around the veg chunks or turn their noses up at certain flavours. Others may tolerate it, especially if the vegetables are pureed or hidden in a meat-based gravy. However, preference varies widely between individual cats.

It’s important to remember that even though cats might eat food containing these ingredients, they aren’t necessarily choosing to eat the vegetables themselves. they’re likely going for the meat-based elements and simply tolerating the rest.

Should You Avoid Cat Foods With Vegetables?

Not necessarily. A small amount of plant-based ingredients isn’t harmful, and some high-quality cat foods include them as part of a well-balanced formulation. But if you notice your cat consistently rejecting food with visible veg, or if you're concerned about the protein content, you might want to opt for a product with a simpler, more meat-heavy ingredient list.

Look for foods that list high-quality animal proteins (like chicken, turkey or tuna) as the first ingredients, and keep an eye on the overall nutritional breakdown—your cat’s protein needs should come first.

Final Thoughts

The inclusion of ingredients like seaweed, carrots, tomatoes or wild rice in cat food is more about marketing to humans and, occasionally, cost-saving than it is about feline nutrition. While these additions aren’t necessarily harmful in small amounts, they’re not vital to your cat’s diet either.

In the end, your cat’s instincts still know best: if they sniff, nibble, and walk away from a “wild rice and tomato delight”, they might just be telling you they’d prefer something a little less trendy—and a little more meaty.

Is Your Pub, Restaurant, Café or Hotel Disabled-Friendly? Are You and Your Staff Disability-Aware?

When was the last time you evaluated your venue through the eyes of a disabled customer? 

Whether you run a cosy countryside pub, a bustling high street café, a fine dining restaurant, or a boutique hotel, accessibility should never be an afterthought. 

In the UK, over 16 million people live with a disability—yet many still face barriers when it comes to enjoying a meal out, staying in a hotel, or simply using public facilities.

So ask yourself: Is your business truly disabled-friendly? And perhaps more importantly: Are you and your staff disability-aware?

Accessibility: More Than Just a Ramp

Making your venue accessible doesn’t stop at installing a wheelchair ramp or an accessible loo. True inclusivity means taking a holistic approach. Consider the following:

Entrance and Exit: Are your doors wide enough for wheelchair users or people using mobility aids? Are there steps that lack handrails or alternative access?

Floor Plan: Is there enough space between tables for easy navigation? Are trip hazards, such as rugs or uneven flooring, addressed?

Toilets: Are your accessible toilets clean, clearly signposted, and actually accessible—not used as storage rooms or blocked? You do have accessible toilets, don't you?

Menus: Do you offer large-print menus, braille versions, or easy-read formats for people with visual or cognitive impairments?

Lighting and Noise: Is your environment too dim or too loud for people with sensory sensitivities, autism, or hearing impairments?

Digital Accessibility: Don’t Overlook Your Website

Disabled friendly hotel rooms: Do you have any guestrooms equipped for disabled guests? 

Before visiting, most customers will check your website or social media. If your site is cluttered, difficult to navigate, or lacking basic accessibility information (such as whether you have step-free access or accessible parking), you might be unintentionally turning away customers.

Ensure your website is screen reader-friendly, uses alt text for images, and clearly outlines the facilities and services you offer for disabled guests.

Staff Awareness: A Make-or-Break Moment

A venue can be physically accessible, but if staff don’t know how to interact respectfully and appropriately with disabled customers, the entire experience falls apart.

Training should cover:

Disability etiquette – e.g., don’t lean on someone’s wheelchair, speak directly to the person rather than a companion or carer.

Hidden disabilities – including autism, chronic pain, or mental health conditions, which may not be immediately obvious.

How to assist – understanding how to offer help without being patronising or overbearing.

Inclusive language – using respectful terms and avoiding outdated or offensive language.

Consider investing in Disability Awareness Training, many of which are available online through organisations like AccessAble, Disability Rights UK, or VisitEngland’s accessibility resources.

The Business Case for Inclusion

Being inclusive isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s good for business. The “purple pound” (the spending power of disabled households) is worth £274 billion to the UK economy annually. 

Yet, according to a survey by Scope, 75% of disabled people have left a business or chosen not to spend money there because of poor accessibility or customer service.

By ensuring your venue is inclusive, you’re not only expanding your customer base—you’re building loyalty, positive word of mouth, and a reputation for care and quality.

Final Thoughts: Take the First Step

Accessibility is an ongoing journey, not a tick-box exercise. Start by conducting an honest audit of your venue, engaging with disabled customers for feedback, and providing regular training for your staff.

Being disability-aware isn’t just about compliance with the Equality Act 2010—it’s about treating all your customers with the dignity and respect they deserve.

So, is your business truly accessible?

Resources:

AccessAble https://www.accessable.co.uk

Disability Rights UK https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org

VisitEngland: Accessible Tourism https://www.visitbritain.org/business-advice/make-your-business-accessible-and-inclusive/visitengland-accessible-and-inclusive

Scope: Disability Facts and Stats https://www.scope.org.uk/media/disability-facts-figures

Raising Funds with Flavour: Hosting Themed Dinners for Your Church or Charity

Fundraising doesn’t have to be all bake sales and sponsored walks. If you’re looking to raise money for your church or favourite charity while building community spirit, why not consider hosting a themed dinner event? 

These nights bring people together around a shared table and shared purpose – with plenty of fun along the way.

Here’s how to create memorable, meaningful fundraising dinners that people will talk about long after the last course is served.

Why Themed Dinners Work

Themed dinners are a brilliant way to:

Raise funds through ticket sales, raffles, and donations

Strengthen bonds in your local community

Celebrate different cultures or traditions

Encourage creativity and collaboration among volunteers

Whether you're transforming your church hall into a Parisian bistro or solving a "whodunnit" over dessert, the immersive nature of these evenings makes them more than just a meal.

Themed Dinner Ideas to Get You Started

Celebrate the Cultures of the World

Host a dinner night dedicated to the cuisine and customs of a particular country or region. You could invite guest speakers or performers, play traditional music, and decorate your venue to reflect the theme. Some popular ideas:

A Taste of Italy – Pasta, tiramisu, and perhaps a live opera singer?

Caribbean Carnival – Jerk chicken, rum punch (or mocktails), and steel drum music.

Indian Feast – A thali-style dinner with vegetarian options, colourful décor, and Bollywood dancing.

Be sure to approach cultural themes respectfully, and consider partnering with members of those communities to ensure authenticity.

Murder Mystery Evening

Put your guests in the middle of a thrilling mystery, with clues revealed between courses. These can be pre-scripted kits or bespoke stories written by a volunteer. 

Offer optional costumes, assign roles, and let guests immerse themselves in the drama. Add prizes for best-dressed or best detective to keep energy high.

Historical Banquets

Step back in time with a Tudor feast, a 1920s speakeasy, or a wartime ‘ration night’. Use vintage recipes, era-appropriate music, and period décor to enhance the experience. These events are perfect for local history buffs or themed church groups.

Movie-Inspired Meals

Design your menu and atmosphere around a beloved film or film genre. Think “Harry Potter Hogwarts Feast”, a “Great Gatsby Gala”, or a “Lord of the Rings” hobbit banquet. Include a screening or a trivia quiz to complete the night.

Planning Your Fundraising Dinner

Here are a few tips to help make your event a success:

Set a Budget and Fundraising Goal

Know your costs up front (ingredients, decorations, venue hire, etc.) and set clear targets for what you’d like to raise.

Promote Early and Widely

Use posters, social media, newsletters, and word of mouth. Consider offering early bird tickets or group discounts.

Cater to Dietary Needs

Always offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, and ask guests to notify you of allergies in advance.

Add Fundraising Extras

Include a raffle, auction, or donation table to boost income. Ask local businesses to donate prizes or sponsor the event.

Involve the Community

Encourage church members, youth groups, or local volunteers to help with cooking, serving, or entertainment. This spreads the workload and fosters greater involvement.

Final Thoughts

Themed dinners offer more than just a meal – they create lasting memories, honour diverse cultures, and bring people together for a cause that matters. With a bit of imagination and teamwork, your next fundraising event could be a night to remember and a huge help to your charity’s mission.

So light the candles, set the table, and let your community's generosity shine – one course at a time.

How to Write a Family Recipe Book and Have It Professionally Printed

Step 1: Collect Recipes from Family Members

Ask around: Reach out to parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins for their favourite recipes.

Record details: Note ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking times, and serving suggestions.

Include memories: Ask family members to share stories about the recipes—where it came from, who made it best, or which occasions it was served on.

Step 2: Organise the Recipes

Choose categories: e.g. Starters, Mains, Desserts, Baking, Holiday Dishes, Comfort Food.

Group by family member or generation if your focus is on preserving heritage.

Include an index so recipes are easy to find.

Step 3: Test and Edit

Make each recipe if you're unsure about quantities or steps.

Standardise measurements using either metric or imperial—choose one for consistency.

Proofread carefully—check for typos, unclear steps, or missing ingredients.

Step 4: Add Personal Touches

Photos: Include pictures of the dishes, family members cooking, or past holiday gatherings.

Stories: Write short intros to each recipe with memories or origin stories.

Tips and tricks: Add little handwritten notes, substitutions, or 'secret ingredients'.

Step 5: Design the Layout

You can:

Use templates from programmes like Canva, Adobe InDesign, or Microsoft Word.

Hire a designer via platforms like Fiverr or Upwork for a polished look.

Include a dedication page, table of contents, and family tree if you wish.

Step 6: Choose a Printing Option

Here are popular UK-friendly options:

Blurb (blurb.co.uk) – Offers cookbook-specific templates and small-batch printing.

Mixam (mixam.co.uk) – Known for high-quality print and reasonable prices.

Photobox – More image-focused, great for photo-heavy books.

Local printers – If you want to support a nearby business and see paper samples in person.

Choose:

Binding: Spiral (great for kitchen use) or hardcover (for heirloom appeal).

Paper type: Opt for matt or silk finish to resist smudges in the kitchen.

Step 7: Print and Share

Order copies for family members.

Consider gifting the book at Christmas, birthdays, weddings, or family reunions.

If there's wider interest, you can even sell it through Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing or Etsy.

Bonus Ideas

Add a QR code to video clips of family members making the recipes.

Include a “Your Notes” section so people can personalise each recipe.

Create a digital version (PDF or e-book) for tech-savvy relatives.