Restaurant to employ people with mental health problems
By William Smith
An award winning restaurant in Edinburgh is to be turned into a not-for-profit business. The restaurant which is based in the New Town area will provide work for people who suffer from mental health problems.
Iglu is already one of the city centre’s best known restaurant and bars which has won several awards including ‘gastro pub of the year and now is set to become a registered social enterprise.
Charlie Cornelius is the founder and owner of the business and he has opted for a huge change in order to help people to recover from mental illnesses. He has suffered personally from depression since his late 20’s.
The new social enterprise is helping to ensure that people with depression, stress and other mental health issues get back into work. It also wants to source ingredients from local producers.
Speaking to the Edinburgh Evening News Mr. Cornelius, 36, said ‘Iglu, from the outset, was more than looking to make a profit from business – it was trying to be proactive in using organic, local and Fairtrade produce. We even called ourselves an ethical eatery because e tried to do things differently.’
‘Now Iglu turns a small profit and, for me personally, I will find it very rewarding being able to put something back by taking on trainees who have had mental health issues, as I have had in the past.’
‘A considerable number of people suffer from mental health issues. I have had help myself and I would like to be able to offer help as well.’
The new proposals are expected to take about six months to put into action. Iglu will register as a not-for-profit social enterprise, meaning that any profits generated would be put back into the business. Staff would be paid a ‘living wage’ which national campaigners have set at £7.20 per hour.
What a great idea. Wouldn’t it be good if more people followed this example.
Find the restaurant here
