When pubs close community suffers, new report reveals

86% of people believe that when a pub closes the local community suffers, a new report by The Campaign to End Loneliness reveals. 

The group which collaborated with Heineken for the research found that 76% of hospitality employees felt that the pub where they worked made a positive contribution to the local community. 

In addition, the report also reveals a conversation between regulars in a pub, or between a patron and a member of the pub staff team, can go a “considerable way” to alleviate feelings of loneliness. 

Older pub-goers in particular said the sociable and welcoming atmosphere of a pub gave them the “chance to make friends and stay socially active”.

James Crampton, corporate affairs director at Heineken  UK said: “This year has been incredibly tough for so many people. Loneliness and isolation have affected many across the country and our annual Brewing Good Cheer campaign is all about tackling that. 

“To release this report as part of our activity to raise awareness of this critical issue is even more pertinent now. Of course we understand the need for restrictions to safeguard the wellbeing of the nation but this report recognises the important role that the Great British pub plays in communities and we don’t want to forget that.”

He added: “Pubs are hubs of communities in every village, town and city. They’re so much more than just a place to have a pint – they’re a place to be with each other, and as soon as is safe to do so, we cannot wait to welcome people back.”