The Drinks Trust’s Energy Crisis Fund, aimed at supporting industry colleagues struggling to pay gas and electricity bills and otherwise unable to heat and power their homes this winter, is now open for applications.

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The Energy Crisis Fund will be distributed in grants of £350 per person, and applications will be assessed and prioritised based on their financial circumstances. To find out more about The Drinks Trust's Emergency Energy Crisis Fund and how to apply, please visit here.   

According to a recent survey produced by UKHospitality, the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) and Hospitality Ulster, more than a third of the UK’s hospitality sector is at risk of business failure in early 2023 due to the cost of living crisis.

The prospect of business closures will further exacerbate the profound financial hardship being experienced by many within the industry workforce, according to the Drinks Trust. With the increased cost of energy and food has now put many individuals in energy poverty, the charity said. 

Pernod Ricard donated £100,000 to the relief fund, with other leading industry businesses also contributing. Donations can be made here and enquiries to partnerships@drinkstrust.org.uk.

Ross Carter, The Drinks Trust chief executive, siad: “The support we can offer is thanks to the generous support of industry business and organisations who have understood the acute hardship faced by many of our colleagues. We could encourage more businesses to do the same, and join our donors and us in delivering what support we can.”

Pam Rowan, human resources director at Pernod Ricard UK, added: “We are acutely aware this year continues to be a tough year for many and it’s important to us that we continue to support those in the hospitality industry. We have been long supporters of The Drinks Trust’s work and we know this significant contribution to the Energy Crisis Fund will have a positive impact on those who need a helping hand this winter.”