Manorview launches first community hub

Independent Scottish hospitality group Manorview has launched its first community venue – offering the people of Coatbridge a safe place to stay warm, get some food and relax. The Hub, based on main street in Coatbridge offers a holiday club for local children to come to during the October break. Providing a warm and safe space for locals – it will offer them books, games, hot drinks, and a bite to eat – "giving access to some life essentials that many people struggle to afford during these challenging times". The group said it "signifies a huge milestone" for Manorview’s registered charity, Manorview Foundation, and is an important part of their organisation’s mission to make life better through hospitality. Founder of Manorview Steve Graham said: “Though this is the very beginning of the work we want to deliver for communities, we’re delighted to have The Hub open. It was previously a function and private events space that we operated, and after months of trying to get access to other public properties, we decided just to transform a space we already owned. It was vital to us that it felt warm and welcoming, and we hope it brings great comfort to the people of Coatbridge.” The Hub has various zones including a lounge area has books and a TV, there’s an iPad station for getting online and playing games, an entertainment centre with TVs, Xbox and PlayStation, café-like area for having hot drinks and light meals, and a comfortable seating area to relax with a magazine and cuppa. Manorview have covered the cost of creating The Hub so that the charity, Manorview Foundation, can use all funds raised to deliver vital community services. Some of Manorview’s partners also donated time and expertise, including Everything Media, Sketch & Design, L11, Finishing Touches, Go Secure, and JC Upholstery – which the team at Manorview are extremely thankful for. The charity’s activities are being led by Robert McHarg, who has vast experience within the third sector, having previously run children’s charity Achieve More Scotland. McHarg said: “We know times are tough. The cost of living is on the rise, and we know that there will be people choosing between heating and eating. We want The Hub to be there for the people of Coatbridge. We’ve got cosy areas, tvs, games for the kids, books, and iPads. We’ll be serving hot drinks, snacks, and soup while we’re open. And we just really hope to be able to help.”