The Townhouse Chester Partners with Soul Kitchen Chester to Launch Employment Initiative with Sunset Café #News
Victoria Hayes
2nd May 2025
The Townhouse Chester is proud to announce a heart-led partnership with Soul Kitchen Chester, a 100% volunteer-run charity committed to supporting individuals affected by homelessness, food poverty, and social isolation. Together, they are launching The Sunset Café – a six-week pilot project designed to offer real-life hospitality experience to people looking to rebuild their lives.
Opening on Friday, 30th May, the Sunset Café will operate every Friday from 11:00am to 3:00pm at The Townhouse Chester. Run in collaboration with Soul Kitchen Chester’s Soul in a Bowl team, the café will be open to the public, serving simple but beautifully made food including sandwiches, jacket potatoes, sausage rolls, cakes, and freshly brewed drinks. Guests can expect a warm welcome and a feel-good atmosphere with every visit directly supporting the development and confidence of individuals striving to re-enter the workforce.
The initiative offers hands-on training in all areas of hospitality, from food preparation and kitchen skills to table service and customer interaction. Participants will work alongside experienced hospitality professionals from The Townhouse team, gaining practical experience and building skills they can carry into future employment.
“We are delighted to be working with Chester Townhouse Hotel who are kindly offering development opportunities to our Soul in a Bowl team members. Every person deserves the opportunity to feel valued, supported and empowered. This partnership will help our team members build stable, sustainable futures.” — Helen Anthony, Chair, Soul Kitchen
Founded in 2015, Soul Kitchen Chester is entirely run by volunteers. The charity runs a weekly drop-in every Saturday evening at Campbell Hall, where guests are offered hot meals, clothing, and compassionate support. Their Soul in a Bowl cookery sessions provide not only cooking skills but a path toward confidence, qualifications like Level 2 Food Hygiene, and a sense of purpose. 
“We are incredibly proud to be part of this project. Being able to offer real opportunities and support to people who need a hand getting back on their feet is something that means a great deal to me and the whole team. Hospitality is all about people – and this initiative is a perfect example of how our industry can make a real difference in the community.” — Steven Hesketh, Owner, The Townhouse Chester
The Sunset Café has been designed not only as a training ground, but also as a space where the wider community can play a role in uplifting others. By simply enjoying lunch or a coffee, guests will be helping individuals gain vital experience, build self-belief, and
take meaningful steps toward a more stable future. Members of the public are encouraged to visit the Sunset Café, enjoy quality food and beverages, and support this meaningful initiative. Their support will directly contribute to the development and confidence of individuals striving to re-enter the workforce.
The Townhouse now also offers charming mini games and putt-putt in their garden, perfect if you’re popping in with the kids or looking to relax a little longer whilst supporting this project.
For more information about Soul Kitchen Chester and their initiatives, please visit Soul Kitchen Chester’s website.