However, we also want to show the positive news going on within the industry and here is where we will be highlighting good news by regularly updating this story.
JANUARY
Stonegate launches two-year partnership with CALM
Stonegate Group has announced a two year national partnership with Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), launching today (19 January 2026) with the aim of placing suicide prevention and mental health support at the centre of Britain’s pubs, bars and venues.
Through its ‘Cheers to Checking In’ campaign, Stonegate will promote CALM’s messaging across its estate, using in venue signage and digital screens to encourage conversation, awareness and early support.
The collaboration highlights the important role pubs play in social connection at a time when one in four people experience suicidal thoughts and mental health pressures are rising across the hospitality workforce.
Stonegate teams, colleagues and partners will take part in fundraising and awareness activity throughout the partnership.
A nationwide activation with Beavertown Brewery will run from 19 to 25 January, encouraging guests to take part in shared social moments and raise funds for CALM.
To mark the launch, Stonegate will match all funds raised in the first week.
Chief executive David McDowall said the partnership reflects Stonegate’s commitment to community wellbeing and the importance of CALM’s work.
CALM chief executive Simon Gunning said Stonegate’s national reach will help bring life saving support to people where they socialise and spend time together.
St Austell Brewery beer festival raises £18k for South West charities
St Austell Brewery’s Celtic Beer Festival has raised £18k for charitable causes across the South West, following a major turnout at the November event.
All proceeds will go to the St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust, which has donated more than £1m to local charities and individuals since its creation in 2003.
The festival transformed the brewery’s cellars into an event space, hosting five bars and more than 100 beers from over 50 UK breweries. Many brewers donated their beers to support the initiative.
Brewing director Georgina Young said the 24th edition of the festival showcased brewing creativity and the strong community spirit behind the event.
“It’s a chance for our brewers to show case their creativity and, most importantly, every pint poured helped us raise a huge amount of money, which will make a meaningful difference for charities, individuals and organisations here in the South West.”
The festival remains the Trust’s flagship fundraiser alongside activities such as pub quizzes, sponsored walks and an annual charity gala, which raised £47k last year.
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