14th September 2024 – (Hong Kong) Hong Kong Christian Service (HKCS) has initiated the ‘Child-friendly Award Scheme’, aimed at transforming Hong Kong’s restaurants into welcoming environments for families. This pioneering move aligns with the broader goals set by the United Nations and China’s ‘National 14th Five-Year Plan’, both of which advocate for child-friendly urban development.
Starting from July 2024, the scheme has been adopted by prominent restaurant brands such as LH Group, Tao Heung, Saint’s Alp Teahouse, and Luk Lam Dessert, collectively bringing 51 eateries under its ambit. These establishments are now poised to enhance their dining spaces with amenities tailored for children, including child-sized cutlery, healthy menu options, and engaging decor that resonate with the young guests.
This initiative was spurred by a survey conducted by HKCS in April, involving 1,531 children from 14 kindergartens, which revealed a strong preference for more child-accommodating facilities in restaurants. The findings highlighted that nearly half of the respondents prioritised the child-friendliness of eating establishments over transport and street settings.
Restaurants participating in the scheme are expected to meet at least three of the six criteria outlined, which encompass aspects like safety, entertainment, and nutritional food options. To ensure adherence and evaluate effectiveness, HKCS plans to deploy children as mystery diners who will offer firsthand insights into the dining experience.
The scheme’s impact was palpable at an event hosted by Luk Lam Dessert, where children participated actively by serving their parents, thereby providing a practical demonstration of the scheme’s objectives. Gloria Mak, owner of Luk Lam Dessert, emphasized the scheme’s role in boosting awareness about children’s needs, which has subsequently led to an uptick in family patrons.
Eunis Vu, Service Head of Family & Counselling Service at HKCS, commented on the initiative’s broader implications, stating, “We hope that Hong Kong society will pay more attention to children’s rights… Through the ‘Child-Friendly Award Scheme’, we encourage adults to support the comprehensive development needs of children.” Vu also noted the competitive advantage these features offer in the bustling local restaurant industry.
The scheme is now open for more restaurants to join, with an application deadline set for 15th October 2024. As HKCS extends this initiative, it aims to foster a more inclusive city that respects and celebrates its children, potentially setting a standard for other cities to follow.
For those interested in learning more or participating in the scheme, HKCS can be reached at 3611 8347 or through their website at HKCS Child-Friendly Award Scheme.
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