From your local British pub to international restaurants, bars, and takeaways, the places we gather to eat and drink are facing an unprecedented crisis. The combined forces of the pandemic and soaring inflation are shuttering doors at an alarming rate, and this trend will continue unless we act decisively.
Sorry for the interruption, we just want to explain a little about our group: We are a dedicated group of friends, united by our shared experiences with physical and mental 'diff-abilities' – a term we use to celebrate our different ways of interacting with the world. While we navigate challenges like non-verbal communication and dyslexia, which can impact confidence, our passion for making a positive difference shines through our volunteer work.
Since 2006, our projects have been warmly received, and we are proud to say that every effort is fuelled by genuine altruism; we receive no personal benefit from anything we do. Volunteering serves as a powerful means of healing for us, helping to build confidence and foster greater integration within society.
Currently operating as an Unincorporated Association, we recognise the limitations this structure presents as our projects grow. Our ambition is not to become a traditional charity (where board members are paid), but rather to establish a unique, volunteer-led business. In this model, the only expenses will be essential operational costs like payment processing fees and taxes. Every other pound will be channelled directly into bringing our projects to life. We are committed to this principle: no salaries, no expenses, not even a claimed lunch – just pure dedication to our cause.
As an example, our high street, once boasting over 20 thriving pubs, now has only eight actively serving food and drink. The remaining buildings stand empty, silent testaments to a bygone era. Even among the survivors, management changes are frequent, each attempting to rekindle the vibrant community spirit that once filled these establishments most nights. Some argue that society has changed, but we believe otherwise. People are ready to return if affordability and sustainable business practices can be restored, freeing owners from crippling debt.
Pubs are iconic, deeply woven into the fabric of the UK, Ireland, and beyond. They've evolved from smoky rooms to sophisticated venues offering not just local delicacies but world-class cuisine. Restaurants and takeaways have similarly elevated their offerings, sparking local food revolutions and injecting vital funds into economies. Yet, for hundreds of these cherished businesses, that positive trajectory has been brutally interrupted.
Spiralling costs and supply-chain breakdowns are decimating the industry. In Britain alone, an average of 80 pubs close their doors each week. When you factor in other food businesses globally, the scale of this loss is truly staggering.
Across the globe, you're witnessing the disappearance of your favourite lunch spots and dinner destinations. But there is hope, and we urgently need your support. Explore the pages of this website to understand our mission. We're starting with the iconic British pub, honouring its history and architecture, but our vision is to save these essential establishments worldwide, ensuring they continue to enrich every community.