The George in Newnham on Severn has created a safe space for local people to come together to help overcome social isolation and feelings of loneliness.
This friendly and welcoming mixed-use community hub in the Forest of Dean, which is run by a group of dedicated volunteers, provides space for artistic, educational and therapeutic activities and hosts talks, music events, art exhibitions, workshops and lots of creative activities for local people of all ages.
To support these social and creative activities, expert help and a Community Services Fund grant from Pub is The Hub was provided to help with the purchase of a projector, screen and laptop. These have already been put to good use, enabling the venue to run free monthly talks on a range of topics to help educate and bring people together.
The community hub includes a gallery, second-hand shop and a café that offers a fantastic range of artisan teas and coffees, cold drinks and alcoholic drinks. Its talented volunteer bakers provide a delicious selection of cakes for the café, which helps provide a much-needed space for people to connect.
Nick Assirati, member of the Newnham on Severn Community Benefit Society, which runs The George, said: “We have built a village hub in an attempt to combat loneliness and to help build social cohesion. We provide an inclusive, convivial space for interaction, education, or maybe just an inexpensive cup of tea and a warm welcome.”
Pub is The Hub regional advisor Roger Belle added: “This is a fantastic venue that has really engaged and connected with people in the local community. The talks and events are having a real impact in helping to bring people together and adding social value to this small rural village.”
The Newnham on Severn Community Benefit Society had campaigned for five years for the premises to be purchased as a community asset. They finally purchased the pub in October 2022 and the opened its doors in June 2023.