At Scarf, we transform the lives of young people seeking protection, and those from refugee and migrant backgrounds, by getting them into work while adding flavour and heart to the hospitality industry. Founded in 2010, Scarf is a not-for-profit organisation with charity status which operates as a social enterprise*. Scarf Trainees are at the centre of everything we do, but meaningful roles are also played by diners and mentors.

How does it work?

• we partner with restaurants and other hospitality businesses to run Scarf Dinners and provide meaningful training, mentoring and paid work experience to our participants
• we create a positive, real-world experience for our trainees, who have faced significant barriers to work
• trainees are paid, valued, become part of a learning community, and move on to meaningful jobs with confidence, supportive relationships, and excitement

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Learn about Scarf's strategic goals:

Read our 2019 – 2022 Strategic Plan

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 *Using the power of the marketplace to solve the most pressing societal problems, social enterprises are commercially viable businesses existing to benefit the public and the community, rather than shareholders and owners. A social enterprise has a defined primary social purpose, environmental or other public benefit, and derives a substantial portion of its income from trade.
(Definition from Social Traders)

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Like what we do?

Under normal circumstances, we'd suggest you book into a Scarf Dinner. But with current restrictions, the best way to support our work is to grab some Scarf merchandise or make a donation. 

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Cover image: Hands-on training during Autumn Scarf '19 at The Rochey. Photo: Linsey Rendell