We’ve reopened on the 1st of September after long months of closure. What was it like coming back to work for staff? We’ve asked Teresa Riley, our Sales and Events Manager, to give us her first impressions on being back at Friends House.

First of all, how are you?
I feel great, it’s good to be back! I really missed the interaction with my colleagues and our customers. When you work in events you’re used to meeting so many people all the time. You’re always out and about. There’s a real buzz to it. So, working from home was quite a drastic change.

Have you had any bookings yet? 
We have! And it was great to finally have somebody walk through the door. The meeting went very well and in their own words: “It was perfect”. That’s such a relief considering that we’ve had to change many things in the venue to comply with the COVID-19 guidelines from the Government and the event industry.

How do you communicate with organisers on the new guidelines?
We are always available to answer their questions via email or call. We also direct them towards our COVID-19 resource centre. Then, just before the event, we send out an email outlining the arrival process, and how we deal with track and trace and PPE on-site. There’s also a leaflet attached to the email with our new safety guidelines. On the day of the event, delegates are given a printed copy too.

Why should people come back to Friends House?
We are safe and secure and received two COVID-safe accreditations: MIA Secure and ‘We’re Good To Go’. We haven’t increased our rates, which are still very affordable for a central London venue. Our catering is still fresh, tasty, and responsibly sourced, where possible. We are very much aware that this is a new setting for organisers and delegates alike, however, they can still expect to have a great event experience at Friends House. Last but not least, every booking helps Quakers with their charitable work which is very much needed at the moment.

To organise your next meeting for up to 30 delegates, get in touch today or enquire now.