Safeguarding in hospitality should be more than just policy, it should be embedded in a business' culture.

In this episode, we explore how training, awareness, and prevention can transform venues into safer spaces for both staff and guests.

In this powerful episode of Talking Hospitality, we’re joined by Eren Bessim, Head of Training & Development at Safer Business Network, who brings frontline experience from the police force, festivals, and now the hospitality industry to tackle a critical subject: safeguarding.

We dig into why safety training isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about changing the culture of your business. Eren shares eye-opening stories from venues where prevention and intervention made all the difference, from spiking and harassment to hidden disabilities and suicide prevention.

We unpack the significance of schemes like Ask for Angela, WAVE (Welfare and Vulnerability Engagement), and the upcoming Martyn’s Law. You’ll hear how proactive training helps not only protect customers, but also can empower your team, improve retention, and strengthen the integrity of your entire operation.

This is an urgent conversation for anyone working in hospitality today.

"Safeguarding isn’t just a policy on the shelf — it’s the culture you build every shift, with every interaction."

Eren Bessim

Takeaways:

• The importance of early intervention & prevention
• How to identify vulnerability in venues
• “Ask for Angela” – what it really means & where it came from
• What is WAVE training and how to use it across your business
• Preparing for Martyn’s Law and why it matters
• Cultural changes vs one-off training sessions
• How safeguarding supports staff wellbeing and retention
• Real-life stories of intervention that saved lives

Resources & Mentions:

• Safer Business Network: saferbusinesstraining.org.uk
• White Ribbon UK
• Kelly’s Cause Foundation
• The Sunflower Scheme (Hidden Disabilities)
• Martyn’s Law (Protect Duty) – pending legislation

Talking Hospitality is proudly supported by:

• Graphic Kitchen – creative storytelling for hospitality brands
• LeisureJobs – the go-to recruitment platform for the industry