Public Houses
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what recent assessment has been made of the contribution of pubs to reducing social isolation and loneliness.
Answered by Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade
The Government recognises that pubs are important community assets that bring people together and provide valued spaces for social connection. While the Department has not made a specific assessment of the contribution of pubs to reducing social isolation and loneliness, we recognise the important role they play in supporting community wellbeing and welcome the recent reports by both the British Beer and Pub Association and Punch Pubs which have both highlighted the social contribution made by pubs.
That is why the Government is supporting the long-term viability of pubs through targeted business rates support and a £10 million Hospitality Support Fund. The Fund will help pubs diversify their business models and continue serving as valued hubs for local communities. This builds on previous and continued support provided through Pub is The Hub, which has helped rural pubs expand their role as community assets and unlock stalled community projects.
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