Joseph Holt launches campaign to ward off loneliness

The 175-year-old Manchester-based business has begun its Feb-BREW-uary initiative with a range of services.

These include bereavement sessions to Alzheimer’s and menopause support groups as well as knitting groups and church services. Often enjoyed over a different type of brew – namely a cup of tea or coffee.

“Joseph Holt has always believed strongly that pubs create a sense of togetherness,” said Joseph Holt marketing manager Paul Longmire.

Bring people together​

He continued: “Our pub managers are constantly looking at ways to bring people together, fight loneliness and provide warm, lively and uplifting places to meet.

“So, although we are known for the award-winning ales we brew, the idea of coming in to have a different type of brew – namely a cuppa – is vitally important too. That`s how we came to launch Feb-BREW-ary.”

Figures from the Office for National Statistics data show the number of people who are chronically lonely has risen to 3.83m in the UK.

“Pubs are the archetype of third space – somewhere that isn’t home or work, but a place that brings people together beyond the immediate family or work,” says Thomas Thurnell-Read, an author and lecturer at the University of Loughborough when researching the impact fewer pubs is having on British society.

Perfect community hub​

Longmire added: “Pubs are the perfect community hub, providing an informal setting in which people can meet, network, socialise,  make friends and ward off loneliness.

“Where there is a pub, there is a community, and given the many pressures people face, it’s more important than ever Joseph Holt offers somewhere that the community can come together to enjoy company, support and social gatherings. 

“That’s why we are using our Feb-BREW-ary initiative to let people to know that we are somewhere we brew up as well as serve our famous brews.”