Soul Kitchen Chester, a 100% volunteer‑run charity providing vital support to people facing homelessness, food poverty, and social isolation, has appointed hospitality leader Steven Hesketh as a Special Advisor to its board. This new role formalises his ongoing partnership with the charity and marks an exciting stage in Soul Kitchen’s growth.
Founded in 2015, Soul Kitchen host a welcoming drop-in session where guests receive a hot meal, essential clothing, and support in a safe, judgment-free space every Saturday at Cambell Hall. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the charity runs “Soul in a Bowl” at Northgate Church, hands-on cooking sessions that help individuals build confidence, learn kitchen skills, and enjoy a shared meal in a supportive, empowering environment. Through these weekly initiatives, Soul Kitchen continues to prove that community, compassion, and dignity are at the heart of real hospitality.
Among the charity’s flagship initiatives is The Sunset Café, launched in May 2025 through a collaboration with Chester Townhouse Hotel. Hosted inside the hotel every Friday from 11 am to 3 pm, The Sunset Café serves simple but well‑made meals, sandwiches, jacket potatoes, cakes and drinks, and offers a training environment where people affected by homelessness can build confidence and practical skills. Participants gain hands‑on experience in hospitality, from kitchen prep to service, working alongside professionals from The Townhouse team.
Steven Hesketh, known in the industry as The Hospitality Hero, brings years of experience from running The Chester Townhouse, as well as running The Art of Hospitality events and operating a soon to be Hospitality Academy. Through these ventures, he has consistently championed inclusive hospitality that aims to uplift both individuals and communities.
In his new Advisory role, Steven will work closely with the board to help shape strategy, scale Soul Kitchen’s impact, and develop programmes that further partnerships like Sunset Café. His vision aligns closely with the charity’s mission to empower those living under the radar through dignity, skills and hope.
Facing the launch, Helen Anthony, Chair of Soul Kitchen, commented:
“The Trustees are thrilled that Steven has accepted the role of Special Advisor to the board. Soul Kitchen are entering an exciting time in their development and expansion, and the business knowledge and experience that Steven holds will be a huge asset to our progression.”
Steven added:
“Hospitality is all about people, this initiative is a perfect example of how our industry can make a real difference in the community.”
With Steven’s formal involvement, Soul Kitchen is poised to expand both its core services and its training partnerships, amplifying its reach across Chester. Together, they are redefining how hospitality can be a catalyst for social change, one plate and one person at a time.
