Bukky Balogun

Home-baker Bukky Balogun has always had a passion for baking and loves to see people enjoy her delicious goods. So, in 2025, she decided it was time to do something about it and turned her passion into a business. She was excited with a hint of nerves – as a deputy operations manager in her full-time job, she is used to being the person who encourages other small and medium businesses to be better but saw it from a new perspective when deciding to venture into a business of her own.

Bukky had good food hygiene knowledge already, thanks to helping the hospitality team at church and had already completed the Level 2 Food Hygiene course. When Grace, Manchester City Council’s Business Compliance Support Officer contacted her to offer guidance and support prior to her inspection, Bukky was happy to take the opportunity to make sure that she was on track to receive the best rating – and that is exactly what she did. Manchester City Council awarded Bukky the top rating of 5 following her first ever food hygiene inspection.

“The perception of Environmental Health Officers is like they’re old school master’s with their sticks. There are things you see in the news and hear about them being strict and closing places down but what I saw was people who want to help make sure you’re on the right track. They are there to support you, not scrutinise or punish you.

When Grace contacted me, she wanted to know what I knew already so then she could identify gaps in my knowledge. She asked me what I already had in place and I explained to her about my Safer Food Better Business pack which I had already printed – she was like a voice of encouragement, confirming the things I had in place already and she provided guidance on things like the correct cleaning products, along with sending me information by email.

She gave me a rundown of what to expect during my inspection and it was comforting to know that it wouldn’t be a daunting experience.

I would absolutely recommend the Business Compliance Support service. If everyone had someone like Grace it would make you feel comfortable right from the outset and a listening ear, ready to help. The way it all started with Grace, the moment she rang, she put my fears at rest, listening to me and was ready to help”.