A Manchester pub chain is tackling loneliness head-on with the launch of its month-long Feb-BREW-ary campaign offering free tea and coffee at its venues, along with a warm space where people can meet and connect.
Joseph Holt’s Feb-BREW-ary focuses on tea rather than beer and highlights the many drop-in sessions and social or support groups at its pubs.
The venues also host everything from bereavement and Alzheimer’s support groups to menopause sessions, knitting clubs, plus chit-chat gatherings often centred around a free cuppa (and sometimes food).
Research by the British Beer and Pubs Association (BBPA) found two out of three (67 per cent) people see pubs as “vital” in the fight against isolation.
This includes the Mosley Arms in Bolton which opens its doors every Wednesday afternoon from 1:30-4:30, offering free tea, coffee, warm food and children’s activities.
“There are so many people who might not see anyone all day, of all ages,” says licensee Bernadette Arms.
“This community drop-in encourages people to come out and enjoy a warm space. We also collect good-quality clothes, toys, baby items and household items, which are offered to anyone during the drop-in.”
The loneliness epidemic, which spiralled during the Covid-19 pandemic, continues to affect millions. According to ONS statistics from July-September 2025, 54 per cent of women and 47 per cent of men in Great Britain report feelings of loneliness, with approximately 3.83m people experiencing chronic loneliness.
Director of pubs at Joseph Holt Mark Norbury said: “As an independent business that has remained in the same family for six generations, Joseph Holt has always believed pubs create a sense of togetherness.
“Pubs are natural community hubs – informal places to meet, socialise and form friendships. Where there is a pub, there is a community.
“Through Feb-BREW-ary, we want people to know that Joseph Holt pubs brew more than beer. Alongside our ales, there’s always a kettle on and no one needs to feel alone.”
