18% more licensees ask LTC for help

The Licensed Trade Charity has assisted 18% more licensees this year than last, as the number of people asking for help is steadily increasing.

The charity has just secured a £16,192 donation from Punch Taverns, which will enable it to cover the cost of its 14 regional volunteer visitors. This is the second year that Punch has supported the LTC.

These volunteers support the LTC's professional team who receive hundreds of calls from those working or retired from the trade. The volunteers visit those asking for assistance to see if and how the charity can help.

James Brewster, the LTC's chief executive said: "These volunteers are our eyes and ears, helping us to assess and assist those who call us, we really couldn't do without them now. The support from Punch means that we can use these costs instead to make a difference to those in a time of crisis".

A spokesman for Punch Taverns said: "We know how important the work of the LTC is right now, and particularly the dedication and assistance provided by their volunteer visitors. We are proud to be able to help them continue with this programme."