First Dates host opens new training restaurant inside Staffordshire women's prison
Fred Sirieix's charity The Right Course has opened a training restaurant inside a Staffordshire women's prison
Fred Sirieix host of the hit Channel 4 dating show First Dates has opened a educational training restaurant inside a Staffordshire women’s prison.
The establishment is called ‘Flavours Unlocked’ and it is located inside a women’s prison at HMP Drake Hall in Eccleshall, Staffordshire.
The training restaurant has been spearheaded by Sirieix’s charity The Right Course and has been backed by Hilton and the Government’s Hospitality Support Fund.
Hotel group Hilton has contributed expert trainers and shared its practices to ensure participants are trained to the highest possible standard.
The programme has received funding from the Government’s £1.5m Hospitality Fund operating over 2026-27, with additional funding to support training from the Government’s new Hospitality Grant Scheme.
Fred Sirieix, Founder and Trustee of The Right Course said: “By working in partnership with industry leaders like Hilton, and the prison regime, we are creating the right environment for our learners to turn their lives around, to gain the confidence, skills and aspirations needed to positively contribute to society.”
“I want our graduates to be the best so that our employer partners snap them up and see them as valued members of their team. It’s up to our new learners to seize this opportunity.”
Kate Dearden, Minister for the Future of Work, said: “Hospitality is a vital part of Britain’s economy, but businesses need access to skilled, dedicated staff to succeed.
“The Right Course is a fantastic charity, improving the lives of its participants. Working with charities and employers, we are determined to unlock talent wherever it is found and allow people to build a better future for themselves, businesses and their communities.”
Catherine McKinnell, Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, said: “Prison must be a punishment, but it must also give offenders the tools to turn their backs on crime for good.
“Education and employment are vital to that mission, and programmes like The Right Course show what can be achieved when prisons, charities and businesses work together to help offenders build better lives.
“That means fewer people reoffending, fewer victims and safer streets.”
Stephen Cassidy, Senior Vice President, UK and Ireland, Hilton, said: “At Hilton, our mission is to create opportunities for all and break down barriers to employment.
“Through our partnership with The Right Course, Flavours Unlocked is helping bring that commitment to life by giving women in custody practical hospitality training, industry skills and a clearer route into work.
“For our industry, it is also a powerful reminder that talent can be found in many different places, and that with the right support, hospitality can open the door to meaningful, long-term careers.”