Pub extends opening hours to encourage friendships
A watering hole in Douglas is extending its opening hours from today (18 April) as part of efforts to tackle isolation and loneliness.
The Woodbourne Pub will open its community hub – ‘The Woody Club Initiative’ - from 10am.
It wants to encourage residents gather together to form friendships and engage with each other.
Manager Trevor Latus says since the pandemic he’s found people have lost the urge to go out.
He, and Quintin Gill from Live at Home, spoke to Chanelle Sukhoo:
Jason Lowe from Okell’s Inns said: "The Woodbourne has been a popular part of its local community for many decades.
"Traditionally pubs have always been meeting places for friends and neighbours to socialise.
"We recognise that our organisation has fantastic spaces that could be utilised more and in a different way to bring people together.
"We will be offering a space for people to play games, have a chat, and make new friends.
"I hope that we can encourage people to see their local pub as somewhere much more than a place to drink.
"It's about giving something back to the community and enjoying the space."
The pub is also partnering with Manx charity Live At Home.
Chief Executive Karen Winter said: "Pubs can be the central hub that cements relationships, develops friendships, and provides social interaction.
"As a charity we are extremely excited to be involved in the launch of the ‘Woody Club.’
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