There was an interesting Opposition Day debate this first week back after recess on the hospitality sector and the challenges it currently faces. I spent much of the Summer recess visiting numerous pubs and cafes in this constituency, talking to landlords and owners, hearing at first hand the difficulties they are facing in the current economic climate. Many of them are fearful for the viability of their businesses, and very worried that the coming Autumn Budget is not going to improve matters for them. The issues were well aired in the Chamber whilst I was in the Chair, higher NI contributions, Business Rates, the impact increases on the minimum wage have had on them. Not a single business owner resented the increase in pay to their staff, but they felt they were being unfairly clobbered by National Insurance and VAT.
There were also important contributions about the role pubs can play as community hubs. I saw places like the Royal Oak in Charlton and the Sun Inn in Romsey making a real effort to cater to the needs of their local residents. They were able to emphasise to me the role they have played in combating isolation and loneliness, particularly for older residents.
Last weekend saw the opening of a new hospitality business, the café at King John’s House, now fronting on to Church Street. It was a lovely event and a great opportunity to meet the brilliant volunteers who have done so much work to give the building a complete refresh and a bright new shop front. There remains an ambitious fund raising and restoration project for the House itself, recovering from the awful fire earlier in the year.
It was also DemFest, hosted by the Romsey Dementia Action Group, at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. This annual event is absolutely incredible and I spent time talking to representatives of British Gymnastics about their programme to help people living with dementia have some focus on physical activity and in so doing support neural pathways. The Romsey Open Gate Stroke Club were there, highlighting the help they give to people who have had a stroke in our community and numerous other dementia friendly organisations. It really does go from strength to strength every year and it was a delight to meet Susan Hampshire who spoke so warmly about the care she had given her husband when he developed dementia.
