The Roux Scholarship partners with Hospitality Action

The Roux Scholarship has announced a partnership with charity Hospitality Action, who will provide support for existing and future Roux Scholars.

That support will include ‘comprehensive wellbeing assistance’ through the charity’s industry-leading Employee Assistance Programme.

Every existing Roux Scholar and each new winner will have access to a raft of practical, emotional and counselling support with physical and mental health issues, financial and legal problems, dependency, bereavement, familial and relationship issues, elderly care and all the other challenges that can affect us all in our lives.

This support will extend to their partners and dependents.

Michel Roux Jr said: “My father and uncle were patrons of Hospitality Action and my cousin and I are continuing that tradition but taking it one step further.

“Our partnership cements our commitment to the wellbeing and future of all our scholars, at a time when it is most needed.”  

Alain Roux added: “More than a competition, The Roux Scholarship is a community. In these challenging times, our shared values make Hospitality Action a natural, vital ally, offering essential wraparound support to our scholars.”  

Mark Lewis, chief executive of Hospitality Action, said: “The Roux Scholarship celebrates the best culinary talent in the world. But anyone can hit a bump in the road, no matter how talented or successful they are.

“Whatever the challenge, Hospitality Action is here to help people get back on their feet after a setback. Our employee assistance programme’s Total Wellbeing package is our gold-standard level of care and we’re delighted to provide the most comprehensive wellbeing care in the market to the esteemed Roux Scholars.” 

Emily Roux, who recently won a Michelin star at her restaurant Caractère said: “The hospitality industry is really facing a tough time. This new partnership with HA will enable our scholars and their families to navigate any tumultuous periods they face; often requiring resilience, support and self-care strategies.” 

Alain Roux, Michel Roux Jr, and Emily Roux are committed to holding bi-annual fundraising events for Hospitality Action, the first of which will be held at Caractère in 2026 and will be a four-course meal paired with wines from Le Gavroche cellar.  

Former winners of the Roux Scholarship include Sat Bains, Simon Hulstone and Mark Birchall, with Craig Johnston the reigning champion. 

Another former winner, André Garrett, is also now a judge for the competition.

He said: “Becoming a Roux Scholar is becoming part of the larger culinary family. As a scholar myself and a judge of the Scholarship, I have been lucky to receive such great mentorship and support from the Roux family.

“I have been a firm supporter of Hospitality Action for years and this new partnership is a great addition to the current and future scholars.”