Community pubs in a time of COVID-19

The Government announcement on Friday 20th March that all pubs, cafes and restaurants were to close as part of the coronavirus response was unsurprising and a necessary step in these unusual times. It’s imperative that we all work together, that we co-operate, for the greater good of our communities right now.

We are glad to hear that planning rules will be relaxed so pubs and restaurants can operate as hot food takeaways during the coronavirus outbreak, enabling them to remain at the hearts of communities and provide support for those who need it. We would urge you to use these services where you can, and to support community shops near you too – doing so can help spread the load on the bigger shops while supporting the smaller ones that we all want to see in our local areas.

Community Pub ingenuity is thriving, as we would expect. We’re already hearing from Community Pubs who are extending their role and services. Some are receiving deliveries and parcels, others are sending out recipe boxes and instructions so people can cook their favourite pub meals at home. If your Community Pub is doing this, do let us know – send us details along with your website and Facebook Page or Twitter handle and we will be glad to promote.

The latest information and support can be found at the links below

Business support from HM Government from today 23rd March

General Covid-19 business information including Coronavirus Job Retention scheme, deferring VAT and Income Tax payments, business rates holidays and grants of £10,000 to £25,000 for businesses depending on rateable value and rate relief.

Plunkett Foundation COVID-19 Live is covering the latest advice and updates for all community business.

This situation is changing so fast, and so dramatically, it can feel hard to remain positive at the moment. But we are warmed by the stories we are hearing of communities coming together and supporting one another. This is what co-operative and community business is about – we are proud to be part of it, with you. Do keep getting in touch if your co-op or community business are facing any financial difficulties as a result of this – we are here to help, as best we can.