The Stable Games Room in Weston-super-Mare is not your typical pub. As the town’s first board game pub, it has become a pioneering community space, bringing people together through gaming, social events, and vital support initiatives. From feeding families during the pandemic to fostering inclusivity through innovative programmes, The Stable Games Room has become a vital community asset.
The Stable Games Room has undertaken a wide range of initiatives aimed at social inclusion, community support, and promoting well-being. Key initiatives include:
Community Food Support:
- COVID-19 Free School Meals: Produced over 80,000 meals and food packs to support families in need during the pandemic.
- The Food Box Programme: Provides young adults with weekly food boxes and cooking lessons to help build independence and life skills.
Safety and Well-Being Initiatives:
- PAT Testing Service: Offers Portable Appliance Testing for low-income households, improving safety and reducing risk for vulnerable and elderly residents.
- Mental Health Support: Hosts clubs and activities designed to support mental well-being, including crafting sessions and mental health clubs.
- Warm and Welcoming Space: Provides an accessible, inclusive environment with free board game play, ensuring financial barriers do not prevent participation.
Social Inclusion and Cultural Activities:
- Gaming and Social Events: Regular themed nights, gaming tournaments, and cultural celebrations to promote diversity and community bonding.
- Inclusive Community Hub: Hosts chess clubs, board gaming groups, language meetups, and coffee mornings for seniors.
- Skills and Employment Support: Through the Stable Foundations initiative, offers meaningful work experience for volunteers, including young people and adults with learning disabilities. This programme has helped over 175 individuals gain valuable skills, increasing their employability and confidence.
The community has embraced The Stable Games Room as a safe and welcoming environment. People of all ages and backgrounds come together to socialise, learn new skills, and feel supported. The dedication of the small but passionate team has made the pub a beloved fixture in the area, earning it respect and recognition as a true community champion.
The impact of The Stable Games Room has been profound and far-reaching:
- Social Impact: Combatting loneliness and fostering friendships through inclusive gaming and social events.
- Food Security: Supporting families with meals and food packs during the pandemic and beyond.
- Safety and Support: Enhancing household safety through PAT testing and providing a warm, inclusive space for social interaction.
- Economic and Employment Impact: Helping over 175 individuals gain valuable work experience and transition into paid roles, strengthening the local economy.
The Stable Games Room has redefined what a pub can be—transforming it from a simple social space into a hub of community support, learning, and connection. By addressing key challenges such as loneliness, food insecurity, and unemployment, the pub has become a cornerstone of positive change in Weston-super-Mare.
