In support of Aikens’ upcoming Climb Kilimanjaro Challenge on 1st October — a fundraising expedition for the charity — a percentage of every ticket sold for UCFF 2025 will be donated to the cause via 365 Events. An additional charity auction, hosted during the festival dinner on 15th September, will also raise vital funds.

Led by Aikens and supported by mountaineering group Walking With My Bear, the Kilimanjaro trek will see 40 participants climb 19,341 feet over eight days, raising money to help those facing homelessness find employment in hospitality.

Greg Mangham, founder & chief executive of Only A Pavement Away, said: “The idea by Tom Aikens, our patron, to climb Kilimanjaro epitomises the culture and ethos of Only A Pavement Away. Tom tirelessly supports us in our work, and we can think of no one better to represent us.

“The decision by UCFF to donate a generous % of the entry fee to Toms fundraising pot is the icing on the cake. The money raised by ucff will allow us to support more people into careers in hospitality. Only A Pavement Away can’t thank Tom and UCFF enough.”

Aikens will headline the Staff Canteen Live at UCFF 2025 on 16th September at Tewinbury Farm, Hertfordshire — promising an unforgettable day of culinary inspiration and industry connection, all for a good cause.