The Government has confirmed further support for Pub is The Hub’s Community Services Fund by announcing a contribution of £188k today.
Community Pubs Minister, Jake Berry announced that over 70 new projects in pubs will benefit from the funding and will receive Community Services Fund grants of up to £3k through Pub is The Hub.
Berry said, 'Our pubs are at the heart of local communities supporting thousands of jobs and providing places for local residents to not only enjoy a pint, but also to get together.
“The encouragement, advice and support given by the Pub is The Hub is proving invaluable in helping rural pubs expand their offer.
“Pubs are not only places to drink but also home to essential community services and providing welcome meeting places to help tackle rural isolation.”
John Longden, Chief Executive of Pub is The Hub, added, “This funding will be welcomed by many projects and will be a huge boost for thousands of people living in, and visiting, rural communities.
“Services and activities delivered by professional pub licensees through their businesses can provide a wide range of benefits; basic groceries, library books, training courses, outlets for local suppliers and new jobs – all delivering improved levels of well-being through vital social connections.”
Chairman Simon Theakston, pub owner Cameron Reid, and Jake-Berry MP are pictured.
BBPA's Chief executive, Brigid Simmonds said, “As the original social network, pubs are at the heart of our communities and play a vital role in our lives by bringing us together.
“The pub is far more than just a place to eat and drink. The work of Pub is the Hub with funding and expert support shows how vital pubs can be to delivering other services of community value from Post Office facilities to grocery shops and libraries.
“This additional Pub is the Hub funding will boost rural, community pubs across the UK, helping them remain viable. Pub is the Hub is a great charity which everyone in brewing and pubs supports. This additional funding will encourage others to support it too.”
Government support for Pub is The Hub’s Community Services Fund now totals well over £500k since its launch in 2013.