Rachel Reeves urged to save pubs to tackle loneliness crisis | Politics | News
Pubs are serving as a vital defense against loneliness as the population ages in modern Britain, according to a new report. Meeting friends and other members of the local community in the pub boosts “well-being” by up to £30 billion a year, according to research from WPI Strategy.
The British Beer and Pub Association report says nearly three million adults in the UK feel lonely all the time or often.
The “social cost” of severe loneliness, which also takes into account its impact on health and productivity, is estimated to be more than £12,000 per person per year.
Martin Beck, Old Treasury economist and report author, said: “For many people, a pub is not just a place to buy drinks. It is a place where friendships are maintained, sports teams meet, local groups meet and neighbors meet each other. This is important because people are social creatures. Decades of research have shown that strong social relationships are among the most important determinants of happiness, wellbeing and even physical health. People who feel connected to their community tend to be happier, healthier and less lonely.”
The report does not ignore the dangers of binge drinking and acknowledges that for some people “abstinence is a better choice.” But concerns have been expressed that the benefits of pubs are “largely ignored”.
Emma McClarkin, of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “This report shows how important pubs are to our national wellbeing, and the Treasury’s own methodology proves they create billions of dollars in wellbeing value. It’s proof that pubs not only contribute economically, but also create valuable and often under-appreciated social value that has a profoundly positive impact on individuals and communities.”
“Given the unique and vital value they provide, we must protect pubs, which are closing at an alarming rate due to excessive tax burden, regulation and rising employment costs. The Government must recognize the unique economic and social value that pubs bring through permanent long-term regulation and tax reform that will keep our valued local residents open.”
A Government spokesman said: “We are supporting Britain’s pubs, cutting this year’s business rates by 15% followed by a two-year freeze, extending World Cup opening hours and increasing the Hospitality Support Fund to £10 million to help venues grow, while later this year we will build on our Pride in Place program with a new high street strategy to reinvigorate our town centres.
“This benefits businesses across Britain with the introduction of a cap on corporation tax, a reduction in duty on draft alcohol and the addition of six cuts to interest rates.”
