Firestyle Magazine Issue 1 - Autumn 2015 | Page 15

In September 2011, Brigade Bar and Bistro opened in the two bottom floors of the Fire Station. Working in partnership with the Beyond Food Foundation, PwC and De Vere Venues inspire and motivate people that have been or are at risk of becoming homeless. Today Brigade is a unique Social Enterprise; there is a British bistro with a relaxed dining restaurant, conference facilities, private dining rooms and a cookery school. It uses its profits to continue the great work of the Beyond Food Foundation. It’s really a fantastic social partnership that helps homeless individuals develop skills and motivation to find employment whilst being fully supported by the incredible team. Transforming lives is a day-to-day occurrence. Beyond Food have a range of great ways to help, such as a monthly supper club, its really worth coming to whilst providing funds to inspire even more people. Side Fact In 1930 James Braidwood is brought down from Scotland to head up the new municipal fire service that would eventually become the London Fire Brigade. 22 June 1861 fire breaks out on Tooley Street, leading to the passing of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade Act 1865. Tooley Street is devastated and James Braidwood is one of its victims. 1879 one of London’s first Fire Stations is built on Tooley Street. 2011 The Tooley Street Fire Station opens as a Social Enterprise hub. Brigade Bar and Bistro takes up the ground and first floor. The School for Social Enterprise and Social Enterprise UK third and fourth. 2015 Simon is really proud that the Fire Station is back helping vulnerable people in London once again. Side Fact If you would like to help, get in touch or visit Brigade: www.beyondfood.org.uk www.thebrigade.co.uk @beyond_food @brigadese1 @chefsimonboyle By 2015 Beyond Food and Brigade have trained 863 homeless people through its primary engagement programme Freshlife and employed 83 people through its apprenticeship programme United Kitchen. 15