Since 2017, the Bird in Hand in Stafford—run by Dee and Terry Cope—has evolved into a vital support system for its local community. What began as a small gesture during the Covid-19 pandemic has grown into a full-fledged model of charitable giving, veteran support, and inclusivity. The pub now acts as a recognised Safe Place and offers free access to its function room for countless community causes, establishing itself as a haven for vulnerable people and a champion of charitable initiatives.
The Bird in Hand’s community activity spans across veteran support, charity fundraising, and offering a space of safety and inclusion:
- Pandemic Support:
- Offered £5 Sunday lunches to NHS staff and the elderly, and free meals to the local fire station.
- Delivered 165 three-course Christmas meals in 2020 to the elderly and vulnerable.
- Supporting Veterans:
- Home to the local Royal British Legion, offering free monthly meetings and quarterly dinners.
- Hosts Remembrance Sunday events including a buffet for 150 people and a tea and coffee station.
- Raised nearly £1,000 for the Poppy Appeal through woollen poppy donations.
- Hosts Royal Engineers groups monthly and supported an elderly veteran with fundraising for a stairlift.
- Charity Partnerships:
- Supports multiple charities including Katharine House Hospice, Alzheimer’s Trust, Dogs Trust, Midlands Air Ambulance, and local defibrillator schemes.
- Holds regular raffles, open mic nights, and quizzes, raising thousands each year.
- Safe Place Designation:
- Registered as a designated Safe Place for those in vulnerable situations.
- Works with local street pastors to keep the area safe, offering them free use of the pub’s function room, refreshments on Saturday nights, and a buffet for their AGM.
- Provides help for anyone in need—from lost tourists to homeless individuals.
The Bird in Hand has been described as a true lifeline in the Stafford area. People from across the town and beyond have shared how much the pub means to them, both emotionally and practically. It is widely recognised not just as a pub but as a genuine community anchor.
From providing warmth, food, and shelter, to raising thousands of pounds for local and national charities, the Bird in Hand continues to deliver vital support on all fronts. Its decision to support veterans and vulnerable groups has preserved social networks, built trust, and made a real difference in individual lives.
The Bird in Hand stands as a shining example of community dedication, generosity, and support. With Dee and Terry at the helm, it remains a place where people can walk in as strangers and leave as friends—supported, seen, and valued.
