How Mitchells & Butlers and Social Bite are changing lives together

At Mitchells and Butlers, we're all about making a positive impact—not just for our guests, but for our community too. 

That’s why we’re super excited to announce our new partnership with Social Bite, an amazing charity and social business that’s helping people experiencing homelessness find jobs and housing. It’s a cause that really resonates with us, and we can’t wait to share how it’s already making a difference! 

A partnership that hits home with Social Bite

Our journey with Social Bite began a few years ago across our Scottish businesses, however we have rolled out our nationwide partnership recently. 

James, General Manager at All Bar One, was told that he might be the perfect fit for this initiative. Social Bite’s mission resonated deeply with James. “After taking some time to listen to the story of Social Bite and hearing what their values are I became really engaged with the passion shown about making a difference,” he says. 

“Although a bit nervous at first I think most of this was sat with trying something new within my own business that I had not tried or tested, but I really thought it could be a great opportunity to make a difference.”

Welcoming Amma: a new chapter with Social Bite

One of the standout moments of this partnership has been welcoming Amma to our team. Amma’s journey with Social Bite started in September 2023, when she interviewed for a front-of-house position at All Bar One Waterloo. 

Reflecting on her first days, Amma recalls, “I was so excited and happy. Although I felt nervous at first and I didn’t have the confidence as the place seemed so big but I still loved it.”

James and the team were committed to ensuring Amma felt welcome and supported. “I treated Amma like any other team member but was conscious of providing extra support and check-ins when needed,” James explains. 

This approach helped Amma integrate smoothly and build her confidence, whilst learning all about what her new role involved.

Overcoming challenges and celebrating successes

Like any new role, Amma faced challenges. Initially, she struggled with the e-learning component of her training. However, with patience, support from Social Bite, and encouragement from the All Bar One team, Amma overcame these hurdles. “I have learned to move forwards and put to one side a lot of things. I am building my confidence everyday which has been really helpful in life and the job.” Amma shares.

One of the most rewarding moments for Amma was winning the SASSS award, which celebrates our brand values: sincere, ambitious, sociable, stylish, and spirited. 

“It made me so happy!” she recalls. James adds, “It was really emotional to hear that it actually made a really big difference and someone who was sat the other side of the table was so proud to work in my site.”

The rewards of making a difference with Social Bite

For James, being part of this initiative has been profoundly rewarding. “Making a change and seeing the direct impact of our efforts is the standout reward,” he reflects. “There are daily rewards to the role that I do but the difference that we can make has to be the stand out. I think as well on the other side of that it’s taught me a lot about my own values and who I want to be. Sometimes we can spend a lot of time with our commercial hats on thinking about how we can best peruse all the best possible results but this programme really put the human back into the job and gave me a whole new focus.”

James encourages other managers and companies to consider similar partnerships. “Try it,” he advises. “It might feel different at first, and things might not always go smoothly, but the support from Social Bite is invaluable. You never know what amazing people you’ll find and the positive impact you can make.”

As for Amma, the future is bright. “I now have a job! I have met some really nice people and I really feel like I am a part of a team. I have been able to make friends through work too. I have learnt so many new skills, I push my boundaries and keep learning new skills.”

Join us in making an impact with Social Bite

James’ story shows how impactful careers at M&B can be, no matter the role. 

Whilst we continue with our inclusivity & diversity journey, there are more and more opportunities to make a difference in people's lives. 

If you want to join the bright future with us, sign up for our job alerts today.