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Global Welcome? Project Summary

This study proposes an analysis of the welcome provided to and by migrant workers employed in hospitality venues in rural tourist places in the English Lake District, and Scottish Highlands. It will highlight regional differences in the workplace welcome provided to and by migrant workers, within the context of regional and national policy.

The research will document and aim to influence the emerging public and private sector agenda on the employment of hospitality migrant workers. Simultaneously, the research will illustrate how hospitality sector front-line migrant workers in eating and drinking venues are transforming perceptions of service in tourist places, and examine how their presence influences perceptions of place.

The purpose of this qualitative research is not to provide a systematic overview of all experiences of hospitality working environments. Instead it will provide a snapshot view of specific venues, workers and places at a moment in time. Views about the welcome provided to and by migrant workers will be sought from migrant workers, employers and co-workers, residents, and visitors. Local opinion will be contrasted with strategic views from the top. The research will be shaped by a steering group that represents the tourism/hospitality sector, migrant worker organisations and academia.

Given the outward, upward and restricted labour mobilities of the potential workforce of young people, A8 and non-A8 and non-EU workers either through personal choice or government regulation, exacerbated by the current UK economic climate, debates about the support for and effects of employing workers of all nationalities are crucial for the tourism and hospitality sectors.