Pubs, restaurants and cafés can apply for a share of a new £10m government fund aimed at supporting the hospitality sector.
Announced this morning, (2 September), the three-year Hospitality Grant Scheme will provide money for new businesses, training programmes and projects that bring empty premises back into use.
More than £3m has been set aside for Pub is The Hub, a not-for-profit set up in 2001 that helps pubs in rural and deprived areas provide services like village shops and cafes.
Kate Dearden, minister for the future of work, said: ‘Hospitality venues are where communities come together and where many people get their first experience of work. They create jobs and help our towns and neighbourhoods to thrive.
‘This funding will back local businesses to grow, boost opportunities for people across the UK and support growth in every part of the country.’
Earlier funding was used by uK charity The Right Course to convert two prison staff canteens and kitchens into hospitality training facilities, where prisoners can gain experience working in the industry.
Another project brought hospitality businesses together with technology companies to look at ways of improving productivity and cutting costs.
John Longden OBE, chief executive of Pub is The Hub, said: ‘Access to this new support from the Hospitality Grant Scheme is warmly welcomed as it will help inspire local publicans to diversify to create much needed local services and activities in their rural, remote or deprived areas.
‘BIST, together with the Treasury, has recognised the vital role that publicans and pubs play as essential small local businesses, that make positive contributions to local communities.’
The announcement comes ahead of a planned 20% cut in business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues from April. Government claims the change will save a typical pub around £1,000 next year.
Image: Sara Groblechner/UnSplash
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