Above: Kamal Manhas, one of 2009's apprentices at work at Galvin at Windows

Galvin’s Chance is an inspirational ‘into work’ programme leading to an apprenticeship, college programme or sustainable employment. Initiated by Galvin at Windows restaurant, the programme targets disadvantaged young people aged 18-24 not in education, employment or formal training, and offers them training and opportunities for a front of house career in some of the most prestigious hotels in London. This is the beginning of their involvement on a life changing programme that will ultimately provide them with the confidence, aspiration and opportunity for a career.

Initially piloted at Galvin’s at Windows at the London Hilton on Park Lane, apprentices are also placed at other five-star establishments in London. The success of Galvin’s Chance relies on the focus on real employment rather than just on employability.The programme was launched in Autumn 2009 with 20 young people selected to be the first cohort of apprentices on the Galvin's Chance programme.

The idea behind this project was inspired by Alexander Rose, a 19 year old who tragically witnessed the death of one of his best friends due to London gang culture. Alexander began to put his experiences in a scrap book and this led to him developing a campaign he titled, Solve this Ongoin Problem (STOP) . His passion and drive resulted in his campaign gaining support from youth organisations and senior political figures. Galvin at Windows General Manager, Fred Sirieix, met Alexander and following a discussion about both Alexander’s life and Fred’s experience of travelling from Peckham to work each day, often disrupted by police road closures as the result of a gang crime, the two discussed the hotel industry. Alexander like most young people was totally unaware of the employment opportunities in this sector. Fred was convinced that the skills shortage in his sector could be addressed by providing some concrete employment opportunities for young people at risk.

Motivated by his own experiences, Chris Galvin leapt at the opportunity to utilise his resources and contacts to give others the chance to begin a front of house career along with the training and support required.

Evidence shows that being in employment, education or training at age 16-18 increases a young person’s resilience and is essential to their future employability and economic well-being. Evidence also suggests that employment and a reduction in re-offending are linked, and that stability and quality of employment, along with the levels of satisfaction expressed towards it, are key factors.

Galvin's Chance contributes to existing initiatives which target specific problems that can arise in these critical years including anti-social behaviour and youth crime. Through principal partnership arrangements with Hilton in the Community Foundation, Springboard Charitable Trust, Westminster Kingsway College and Hilton Hotels, the project provides activities, mentoring, work experience, skill training, qualifications leading to NVQ level 2 and employment.