A PUB in Theale is launching a new initiative to combat loneliness this week.
The Fox and Hounds has announced Butcombes Big Table Talk to encourage connections and bring people together.
The new regular event will invite those who may be looking for company–alone or with friends–to come along and enjoy a free tea or coffee and conversations with other members of the local community in a warm and friendly environment.
According to The Campaign to End Loneliness, loneliness is one of the largest public health challenges in the UK.
In 2022, 25.9 million people (49% of adults) in the UK reported feeling lonely occasionally, sometimes, often, or always.
Jamie Queen, Chief Growth Officer of the Butcombe Group, said: “Pubs are the original social network, somewhere at the heart of communities for people to come together and socialise.
“No one should feel alone, so here at Butcombe, we are launching Butcombe’s Big Table Talk where everyone is welcome, to encourage genuine connections and conversations which, hopefully, will make a big difference.”
He explained: “We’re encouraging those looking to meet and make connections to come along to one of our participating pubs, meet others and get chatting.
“Let’s build a stronger, more supportive community, one conversation at a time.”
The Butcombe Big Table Talk event takes place at The Fox and Hounds pub from 2pm on Thursdays.
More information is available via: butcombe.com/butcombes-big-table-talk
