The Positive PUBlicity Hub aims to shine a light on the “often-overlooked” support pubs provide to millions, from funding grassroots sports to nurturing community well-being.
It gives organisations, MPs and the public a close look at the “invaluable ways” pubs support their communities, the not-for-profit organisation said.
Co-founder of PubAid Des O’Flanagan said: “Pubs are the backbone of our communities, yet their impact is too often overlooked.
Portal for positivity
“Our goal with the hub is to create the UK’s largest portal for positivity about pubs- serving as an inspiration across the UK and beyond.
“We want to remind everyone that pubs aren’t just places to go for a drink; they are vital lifelines to the communities they serve.”
The Positive PUBlicity Hub will showcase real-life positive pub stories, which publicans can upload themselves, as well as offer inspiration and practical ideas for publicans eager to explore or expand their community impact.
From food drives and charity events to local support groups and sports sponsorships, the hub aims to help publicans enrich their community role and see how others are making a difference.
Vital lifeline
The organisation added it decided to launch the platform on World Mental Health Day after research by Samaritans charity revealed pubs were ranked second among the top ten places where Brits feel comfortable opening up.
This year, World Mental Health Day highlights the essential services pubs offer beyond just being places to socialise, hailing pubs as “safe spaces” for conversation and connection and a “vital lifeline” for mental health in ways that few other establishments can claim to provide.
Licensee of The Clifton Arms in Blackburn, and PubAid Community Support Hero Winner 2024, Carole Davis said: “Working in partnership with our pub community, we help hundreds of people who just want to come down for a chat.
“Many deal with mental health issues and know they can talk to someone here. Some are too proud to access central services, so if we can’t help them directly, we’ll point them to someone who can.”
