The Ashley Foundation have recently appointed Liam to be our new chef/housekeeper. We sat down and discussed his appointment with him.
Good afternoon Liam, welcome to The Ashley Foundation. Can you give us a brief background of yourself?
“I am 37 years old and I’m from Blackpool. I have been a kitchen and restaurant manager at well-known chains, serving large amounts of people. I have been in and out of kitchens over the last 20 years”
How did you learn to become a chef?
“I taught myself in the kitchen. When I left school, I went straight into work rather than going to college or university. I enjoy cooking things up. I have learned lots in my previous roles, not just to do with being a chef. I learned a lot about people skills in my past roles. I have also trained staff myself whilst running a kitchen before.”
What did you know about The Ashley Foundation before you applied for the job?
“I didn’t know much about The Ashley Foundation before I got the role. I saw the job advertised though and did my research on who they were. However, I have since learned quite a bit. I feel like working with The Ashley Foundation is giving something back. I also like that The Ashley Foundation gets food donations from many places including KFC and Fareshare. The food donations also make me think on my feet, you don’t necessarily know what you’re going to get. There is a lot of chicken, but most residents just want it with chips!”
Have you learned anything else since starting here?
“I have learned about completing room checks whilst working here. I have learned that many of the people who are homeless are only homeless because they’re down on their luck, it could happen to anyone if things go against them. Most are also on some sort of benefit like Universal Credit, something which doesn’t necessarily cover most people’s outgoings, which is another reason people are homeless due to it not covering rent and necessities.
What have you enjoyed so far?
“Besides cooking, I’ve enjoyed hearing stories from the residents. Building up working relationships has been key early in this role. I have played Pool against a resident at a hostel and they opened up to me about things. Sometimes they just need someone who will listen. I’ve also enjoyed cooking for them, but they’ll let you know if they don’t like the food!”
What is your speciality?
“I enjoy making pulled pork, as well as classics like a hotpot, particularly in this weather.”
What do you dislike cooking the most?
“Desserts are easily the worst thing to cook.”
Quick fire round
Favourite football team? Manchester United
Liverpool or City to win the title? That’s like asking how I’d want to die. I’d say Liverpool just because City are noisy neighbours trying to drum up a rivalry.
Favourite footballer? Cantona
Messi or Ronaldo? Ronaldo
Favourite food? Pizza
Favourite band? Stereophonics
Noel or Liam? Liam
What is your least favourite type of music? Grime
Summer or winter? Summer
Favourite holiday destination? Benidorm
Apple or Android? Android
Would you rather get up at 7am or noon? Noon
What would your super power be? Amazing luck
Favourite game? Football Manager
PS4 or Xbox? None, Nintendo 64
We would like to thank Liam for this interview.
Keep up to date with everything happening at The Ashley Foundation by liking us on Facebook @AshleyFoundationBlackpool and following us on Twitter @TAFBlackpool
