Tap Social grew out of a passion for good beer and social justice.
Tap Social is a craft brewery and hospitality social enterprise in Oxford. This is a place where people in/after prison come together to share skills, exchange ideas and experiences, and brew a great beer.
Tap Social Mission
Tap Social Movement was founded in 2016 by Paul, Amy and Tess, who each have experience in a range of positions across the criminal justice system. The three founders had witnessed the immense difficulties that people face when trying to change their lives after coming into contact with the law and wanted to set up an enterprise that would provide genuine opportunities to overcome them. Together with head brewer Jason and economist Matt, Paul, Amy and Tess set up Tap Social Movement to support people during and after their prison sentences, and to offer real job opportunities in order to turn lives around.
Craft Beer Solution
Craft beer industry seemed like a great idea to fulfil their mission since Paul, Amy and Tess had a keen interest in craft beer.
The founders bought a 1000L brewery, got premises in Oxford and soon their friendly team joined new members who shared their passion for great beer and social justice. In a few months, a disused industrial unit turned into a modern brewery and welcoming community space.
The period after prison is a difficult transition, involving rebuilding family relationships, finding jobs, securing housing and readjusting to freedom. Tap Social supports this crucial transition, offering fairly paid employment and continuity during and after prison. Many of our employees have stayed on post-release because the Tap Social community provides an inclusive and welcoming work environment.
All of the artwork used on branding and in Tap Social’s hospitality venues is custom created by men serving sentences at HMP Huntercombe. Tap Social Movement also works with other businesses to find permanent employment placements in other sectors and cities.
In the last year, Tap Social has opened two more hospitality venues in Oxfordshire; the White House by Tap Social, and Tap Social Lock29.
