Website under construction.

Learn By Doing

Gain Real Work Experience

Put your skills into practice. Through real community pop-up sober bar experiences, participants move beyond theory and gain hands-on, practical exposure in supportive, real-world environments. You will work alongside a team, engage with the public, serve customers, and develop essential hospitality and communication skills while contributing to meaningful community events.This stage focuses on building confidence through action. Participants learn how to interact professionally, manage responsibilities, work collaboratively, and respond to real-life situations in a calm and positive way. You will gain experience in customer service, teamwork, time management, and practical service delivery, all within a welcoming, alcohol-free setting that prioritises inclusion and personal growth.By participating in live community events, you begin to see your progress in real time — developing confidence, strengthening social skills, and gaining the kind of practical experience often required for employment in hospitality, retail, and customer-facing roles. This experience also helps build independence, resilience, and self-belief.This stage provides valuable, meaningful experience that can be added to your CV, supports future job applications, and helps open pathways into volunteering, further training, or employment. Most importantly, it empowers you to recognise your own capabilities and grow within a supportive and encouraging environment.

Turn Skills Into Opportunity

Achieve Qualifications & References

Participants will complete accredited barista training, gaining recognised certification that demonstrates practical skills and industry knowledge. This qualification provides credible proof of competence and strengthens employment prospects within hospitality and customer-facing sectors.Alongside formal certification, participants receive a professional reference reflecting their practical experience, teamwork, reliability, and customer service abilities developed through real community pop-up events. Ongoing mentoring and guidance are available to support next steps, whether applying for jobs, pursuing further training, or building confidence for interviews.By the end of the programme, participants leave not only with a recognised qualification, but with hands-on experience, improved communication skills, stronger self-belief, and tangible evidence of their abilities. They are equipped with both the practical skills and personal confidence needed to move forward into the hospitality industry and beyond.

Free Training.
Real Experience.
A Way Forward.

Gain Recognised Qualifications and Career-Ready Confidence

Participants will complete accredited barista training, gaining recognised certification that demonstrates practical skills and industry knowledge. This qualification provides credible proof of competence and strengthens employment prospects within hospitality and customer-facing sectors.Alongside formal certification, participants receive a professional reference reflecting their practical experience, teamwork, reliability, and customer service abilities developed through real community pop-up events. Ongoing mentoring and guidance are available to support next steps, whether applying for jobs, pursuing further training, or building confidence for interviews.By the end of the programme, participants leave not only with a recognised qualification, but with hands-on experience, improved communication skills, stronger self-belief, and tangible evidence of their abilities. They are equipped with both the practical skills and personal confidence needed to move forward into the hospitality industry and beyond.

To ensure participants benefit fully from the programme and that support is directed to those who need it most, the following criteria apply:EligibilityApplicants should:Be 18 years or olderBe currently unemployed, economically inactive, or seeking to return to workBe in receipt of benefits such as Universal Credit, or experiencing financial or employment barriersBe interested in building skills and confidence for employment within hospitality or customer-facing rolesHave lived experience of alcohol misuse, recovery, addiction, or be on a sober or sober-curious journey (self-declared, no proof required)Be willing to learn in a supportive, alcohol-free environmentParticipation RequirementsParticipants must:Commit to actively engaging throughout the full programmeAttend scheduled sessions and community pop-up training events where possibleParticipate respectfully and contribute to a safe, inclusive learning environmentEngage with training, mentoring, and practical learning opportunitiesCommunicate with programme staff if support is needed or attendance changesBe open to building confidence, developing skills, and progressing toward employment or further opportunitiesReferralsParticipants may join through:Self-referralCommunity organisations and charitiesEmployment support servicesRecovery and wellbeing networks

• Register Your Interest

hAUS OF CRAN

Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients (1 Serving)
• 60 ml Cranberry Juice
• 30 ml Fresh Orange Juice
• 90 ml Dry Ginger Beer
• 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
• Handful Fresh Cranberries
• Ice
• Fresh Mint (garnish)
• Optional: 1 tsp Honey / Sugar Syrup (for sweetness)Equipment
• Cocktail shaker (or jar with lid)
• Measuring jigger / small cup
• Spoon / bar spoon
• Strainer (optional)
• Rocks glass / tumbler

Method — Step by Step1. Chill the GlassFill your serving glass with ice and set aside.2. Mix the BaseIn a shaker add:
Cranberry juice • Orange juice • Apple cider vinegar • Optional sweetener
Add ice and shake for 10–15 seconds.3. Prepare the GlassDiscard the ice from your glass and add fresh ice.4. PourStrain (or carefully pour) the mixture into the glass.5. Add SparkleTop with dry ginger beer.
Gently stir once.6. GarnishAdd fresh cranberries and a mint sprig.
(Optional: small squeeze of lime)⸻Taste ProfileBright → Citrus → Gentle Ginger Warmth → Clean Refreshing Finish⸻Bar Serving Tips
• Use clear ice for a premium look
• Lightly slap mint before garnish for aroma
• Sugar rim for a festive version
• Add rosemary for a winter menu twist⸻VariationsSweeter: Add more orange juice or honey
Sharper: Extra apple cider vinegar or lime
Spicier: Use strong ginger beer
Luxury: Add orange peel twist

• Close

PINEAPPLE PARADISO

Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients (1 Serving)
• 90 ml Pineapple Juice
• 45 ml Coconut Water (or coconut milk for creamier)
• 30–60 ml Sparkling Water
• 10 ml Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 tsp Honey / Sugar Syrup (optional)
• Pineapple Wedge or Chunk
• Pineapple Leaf (optional, for garnish)
• IceEquipment
• Cocktail shaker (or jar with lid)
• Measuring jigger / small cup
• Spoon / bar spoon
• Strainer (optional)
• Rocks glass / tumbler

Method — Step by Step1. Chill the Glass
Fill your serving glass with ice and set aside.2. Mix the Base
In a shaker add:
Pineapple juice • Coconut water • Lime juice • Optional sweetener
Add ice and shake for 10–15 seconds.3. Prepare the Glass
Discard the ice from your glass and add fresh ice.4. Pour
Strain (or carefully pour) the mixture into the glass.5. Add Sparkle
Top with sparkling water.
Gently stir once.6. Garnish
Add pineapple wedge and pineapple leaf.
(Optional: light squeeze of lime)⸻Taste ProfileTropical Sweet → Soft Coconut → Bright Citrus → Light Sparkling Finish⸻Bar Serving Tips• Use crushed ice for a fresh tropical look
• Shake well for a smooth texture
• Add toasted coconut rim for a luxury version
• Chill glass beforehand for best flavour⸻VariationsCreamier: Use coconut milk instead of coconut water
Fresher: Add mint leaves while shaking
Sweeter: Extra honey / syrup
Sharper: More lime juice
Luxury: Add vanilla drop or coconut cream foam

• Close

Ruby Red

Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients (2 Serving)• 60 ml Raspberry Purée
• 60 ml Fresh Orange Juice
• 30 ml Sparkling Water
• 10 ml Fresh Lime Juice
• 5 ml Honey / Sugar Syrup (optional)
• 2 drops Alcohol-Free L-Theanine Liquid (calm mood enhancer)
• 2–3 Fresh Raspberries
• Small Mint Sprig
• IceEquipment• Cocktail shaker
• Measuring jigger
• Bar spoon
• Fine strainer
• 2 Champagne flutes

Method — Step by Step1. Chill the Flutes
Fill both flutes with ice and set aside.2. Mix the Base
In a shaker add:
Raspberry purée • Orange juice • Lime juice • Optional sweetener
Add ice and shake for 15 seconds.3. Prepare the Glasses
Discard the ice from both flutes.4. Pour
Strain evenly into the flutes, filling about ¾ full.5. Add Sparkle & Mood Boost
Top with sparkling water.
Add 2 drops Alcohol-Free L-Theanine liquid.
Gently stir once.6. Garnish
Float fresh raspberries on top and add a mint sprig.Taste ProfileJuicy Raspberry → Bright Citrus → Crisp Lime → Light Sparkle → Smooth Calm FinishWhat the Mood Enhancer DoesL-Theanine supports:
• Calm confidence
• Reduced stress
• Relaxed clarity
• No drowsinessPerfect for:
• Social events
• Pre-party nerves
• Creative evenings
• Alcohol-free nights out

• Close

Our Mission

Bringing people together, soberly.

Our mission is to reduce loneliness and support mental wellbeing within the LGBTQI+ community by creating inclusive, alcohol-free social spaces that are rooted in connection, culture, and belonging.We aim to achieve this by reclaiming and reactivating vacant or underused pub buildings, preserving their role as community hubs while reimagining them for contemporary social needs. British pubs — and LGBTQI+ bars in particular — have long served as important sites of connection, heritage, and cultural life. As many of these spaces close or remain unused, communities lose places to gather.

Through this approach, The Sober Bar London supports:• Reduced loneliness and social isolation.• Improved access to inclusive leisure and cultural activity.• Stronger community cohesion across diverse LGBTQI+ identities, cultures, and backgrounds.• Preservation of social heritage through adaptive reuse of pub spaces.• Participation in arts, culture, food, and sport within alcohol-free environments.

The project does not provide clinical or therapeutic services. Its contribution to wellbeing is preventative and community-based, centred on social connection, routine, creativity, and shared space.

• Read more

Founder's Story

It Started From The StreetsI was born on 27th August 2000 at Newham General Hospital in East London.
A British Bangladeshi, Muslim, gay man — raised in the city I still call home.My name is Foyez Jitu, and this is the story behind The Sober Bar London.London shaped me.
But it also tested me.At 19, after coming out, I became estranged and homeless. The safety nets I thought existed disappeared overnight. What followed wasn’t dramatic — it was quiet. Quiet instability. Quiet fear. Quiet survival.When you’re young and alone in a city like London, survival becomes your only priority.
And in many LGBTQ+ spaces, alcohol and drugs are not just present — they are central.What began as coping became dependency.
Alcohol became routine.
Chemsex became normalised.
Substances like GHB and crystal meth blurred the edges of loneliness — until they didn’t.Eventually, injecting marked a turning point.
Not because it was dramatic.
But because I realised I could not continue.I was in and out of work. In and out of stability. In and out of myself.And beneath everything was loneliness.
Not just physical homelessness — but social homelessness.When I began my sobriety journey, inspired by my partner who was already walking his own path, something unexpected happened. I didn’t just lose substances — I lost spaces.The bars I once relied on to feel social no longer felt accessible.
The environments that defined queer connection revolved around alcohol.
Sobriety brought clarity — but it also brought isolation.Research shows LGBTQ+ young people are disproportionately affected by homelessness and substance use, often linked to family rejection and lack of safe community spaces. Yet while recovery services exist, alcohol-free social environments remain rare.I realised something powerful:Sobriety shouldn’t mean disappearance.
Recovery shouldn’t mean isolation.
Choosing not to drink shouldn’t cost you community.I was born in year 2000. I represent a generation navigating identity, culture, faith, queerness, and mental health in new ways. For many young people — sober, sober-curious, or simply seeking alternatives — there are few spaces that feel modern, inclusive, and socially alive without alcohol at the centre.That gap is where The Sober Bar London was born.In January 2026, we formally established The Sober Bar London CIC.
We launched our first Chat & Create session — a simple, intentional gathering focused on connection, creativity, and presence.It wasn’t about recovery.
It wasn’t about preaching sobriety.
It was about option.An alternative.
A space where a 19-year-old version of me wouldn’t have had to choose between drinking and belonging.The Sober Bar London exists because lived experience matters.
Because youth opportunity matters.
Because loneliness matters.We aim not only to create sober social spaces, but to build pathways into hospitality, creative work, volunteering, and skills development — especially for young LGBTQ+ people navigating instability.This is not a story of redemption.
It is a story of responsibility.The streets taught me what happens when connection disappears.
Sobriety taught me what happens when spaces don’t evolve.The Sober Bar London is part of that evolution.This is the beginning of a legacy built not from perfection — but from lived experience, resilience, and the belief that no one should have to choose between survival and belonging.

• Close

our mission

This mission sits at the intersection of community wellbeing, heritage preservation, cultural participation, and inclusive leisure — creating a model that is both socially impactful and adaptable to different neighbourhoods and funding streams.The Sober Bar London responds to this challenge by:
• Temporarily activating empty or underused spaces through meanwhile and community use• Piloting alcohol-free pub environments that prioritise wellbeing and accessibility• Building sustainable models for long-term community ownership and use across the country.In the short term, we deliver this mission through pop-ups, drop-ins, and events within existing community spaces across London.This allows us to build evidence, partnerships, and participation while working towards a permanent venue of our own that would benefit the community on a wider level.Our spaces are designed to be welcoming, low-pressure, and multi-use.They include:
• Food and non-alcoholic drink provision (tea, coffee, soft drinks, non-alcoholic cocktails and 0% options)• Social and recreational activity such as darts, pool, chess, table tennis, and games• Cultural programming including music, drag, comedy, open mic, and performance• Opportunities for creative development, work, volunteering, and skills-building

• Close

Who are we

Our approach is phased and community-led. In the short term, we work within existing community spaces and borrowed venues, delivering regular drop-ins, events, and cultural activity. This allows us to reach people where they already are, remain accessible, and grow in response to real community need.In the long term, our aim is to establish a permanent LGBTQI+ sober bar — a dedicated premises that reimagines pub culture without alcohol at the centre, while preserving the social role and heritage of LGBTQI+ bars.As a CIC, any income generated through events, drinks, or activities is reinvested back into the project — supporting community programming, creative work, and the sustainability of alcohol-free social spaces.The Sober Bar London is not a bar in the traditional sense. It is a social infrastructure — a place to meet, talk, create, perform, and rebuild a sense of belonging.

• Close

Why we exist

But those spaces are often built around alcohol. And when someone chooses sobriety — whether for their health, recovery, culture, or personal reasons — they can lose access to those same connections all over again.Suddenly, there are fewer places to go. Fewer reasons to show up. Fewer ways to stay connected.The Sober Bar London exists because connection shouldn’t disappear when alcohol does.We’re creating spaces where people can meet, spend time together, and belong — without pressure to drink, explain themselves, or perform.

• Close

the community we are building

The space we are building is centred on connection, creativity, and shared time. From tea and conversation to music, drag, comedy, and community-led events, the focus is on creating welcoming, low-pressure environments where people can show up as they are.Alongside this, the sober bar offers playful, familiar ways to socialise — including darts, pool, chess, table tennis, and arcade games — providing easy ways to connect without performance or expectation.We also aim to create opportunities for learning and progression, from hospitality and catering skills to hosting events and supporting creative work. As a Community Interest Company, any income generated is reinvested into sustaining the space and the people who contribute to it.This is the blueprint stage: building the space before the walls — so that when a permanent venue is secured, it truly belongs to the community it serves.

• Close

the community we are building

The space we are building is centred on connection, creativity, and shared time. From tea and conversation to music, drag, comedy, and community-led events, the focus is on creating welcoming, low-pressure environments where people can show up as they are.Alongside this, the sober bar offers playful, familiar ways to socialise — including darts, pool, chess, table tennis, and arcade games — providing easy ways to connect without performance or expectation.We also aim to create opportunities for learning and progression, from hospitality and catering skills to hosting events and supporting creative work. As a Community Interest Company, any income generated is reinvested into sustaining the space and the people who contribute to it.This is the blueprint stage: building the space before the walls — so that when a permanent venue is secured, it truly belongs to the community it serves.

• Close

Bar Menu

non-alcoholic Drinks

TEAS & COFFEEPG Tips Tea ................ £2.00
Nescafe Instant Coffee ................ £2.50
Nescafe Cappuccino ................ £2.50
Cadbury Hot Chocolate ................ £2.50

SOFT DRINKS & ENERGYJ20 Orange & Passion Fruit ................ £4.50
J20 Apple & Raspberry ................ £4.50
Trip – Mindful Blend ................ £6.50
Red Bull Regular ................ £5.99
Red Bull Sugar Free ................ £5.99

SOFT DRINKS ON TAPCola ................ £2.99
Lemonade ................ £2.99
Orange ................ £2.99
Tropical ................ £2.99

ALCOHOL-FREE BEERS & CIDERSKopparberg Mixed Fruit Cider 0% ................ £5.99
Kopparberg Strawberry & Lime 0% ................ £5.99
San Miguel 0% ................ £6.50
Corona Cero ................ £6.99
Guinness 0.0 ................ £7.50

BAR SNACKSPringles Original ................ £3.99
Pringles Sour Cream & Onion ................ £3.99
Smiths Scampi Fries ................ £3.99
Smiths Bacon Fries ................ £3.99

Stay tuned…Mocktails are coming soon.
More sparkle. More flavour.
All the vibe — none of the hangover.All proceeds go back into building The Community Sober Bar.

• Close

WHAT DO BAR HOSTS DO?

Bringing people together, soberly.

As a Bar Host, you will:
• Host regular coffee meet-ups in your local area on behalf of The Sober Bar London
• Use local cafés or community spaces (participants pay for their own drinks)
• Welcome people and help create a calm, inclusive environment
• Encourage conversation and connection
• Collect feedback from attendees about their experiences and needs
• Share this feedback with The Sober Bar London team

The information gathered by Bar Hosts helps us:
• Evidence demand for alcohol-free social spaces
• Identify priority areas for future pop-ups and services
• Support funding and grant applications
• Shape future programmes and, eventually, permanent premises

HOW TO GET STARTED...

To become a Bar Host, click below and complete application form to express your interest.We’ll arrange a short onboarding meeting to explain the role, answer any questions, and make sure you feel confident hosting in your area.

• Become a Bar Host

After onboarding, you’ll receive a Bar Host Pack, which includes:
• Guidance on setting up a local meet-up
• Tips on choosing accessible, welcoming spaces
• Information on hosting safely and inclusively
• Simple tools for gathering feedback and data
• Clear contact details for ongoing support

This ensures every meet-up is community-led, consistent, and aligned with The Sober Bar London’s values — while still allowing hosts to shape gatherings that reflect their local communities.

Get involved

Volunteer With The Sober Bar London CICThe Sober Bar London CIC is looking for volunteers to support the early development of our community-led alcohol-free social enterprise. These roles are ideal for people who want to gain experience, rebuild confidence, develop skills, support sober social spaces, and be part of a new grassroots CIC focused on LGBTQI+ inclusion, recovery, wellbeing and community connection.Most roles are hybrid / remote, with optional in-person attendance at events. Volunteers are not required to attend events unless they are available and wish to do so.

Current Volunteer opportunities

• Events Assistant Role Description

• Click here to download application form 〉

Volunteer Events AssistantThe Volunteer Events Assistant will support the planning and delivery of sober social events, pop-ups, workshops and community activities. This role is ideal for someone friendly, reliable and interested in events, hospitality or community work.You may help with:• Preparing event checklists and plans
• Supporting guest lists and registration
• Welcoming people at events
• Helping with set-up and clear-down
• Collecting feedback after events
• Helping events feel safe, inclusive and welcomingThis role may suit someone who:• Enjoys helping people feel welcome
• Wants to gain events, hospitality or community experience
• Is friendly, calm and reliable
• Is interested in alcohol-free social spaces
• Can attend events occasionally, but only if availableRole details:• Hours: 2–4 hours per week
• Location: Hybrid / remote, with optional event support
• Reference: SBL-VOL-2026-003
• Pay: Voluntary unpaid role
• In-person attendance: Optional and based on availabilityApplication note:
To apply, please complete the application form and send it with your CV to [email protected]. Only fully completed application forms sent with a CV will be accepted.Closing date: Friday 25th September 2026 at 11:59pm

• Community Outreach Coordinator Role Description

• Click here to download application form 〉

VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY OUTREACH COORDINATORThe Volunteer Community Outreach Coordinator will help support the development of our community outreach work at The Sober Bar London.This role is ideal for someone kind, organised and interested in community engagement, LGBTQ+ inclusion, sobriety, recovery, wellbeing, lived experience and building positive local connections.YOU MAY HELP WITH:• Organising outreach information and contact lists
• Supporting communication with community partners, groups and organisations
• Helping identify potential outreach opportunities
• Supporting engagement with LGBTQ+ communities, recovery spaces and wellbeing networks
• Helping prepare content for social media or The Sobriety Blueprint
• Supporting events, campaigns or community awareness activities
• Ensuring community voices are shared respectfully and inclusivelyTHIS ROLE MAY SUIT SOMEONE WHO:• Values lived experience and community voice
• Is kind, respectful and a good listener
• Wants to support LGBTQ+ inclusive community work
• Is interested in sobriety, recovery or wellbeing
• Can help organise information and communicate sensitively
• Enjoys connecting with people, groups and local organisationsROLE DETAILS:• Hours: 2–4 hours per week
• Location: Hybrid / remote
• Reference: SBL-VOL-2026-004
• Pay: Voluntary unpaid role
• In-person attendance: Optional for events onlyAPPLICATION NOTE:To apply, please complete the application form and send it with your CV to [email protected].Only fully completed application forms sent with a CV will be accepted.CLOSING DATE:Friday 25th September 2026 at 11:59pm

Contact

If you’d like to get in touch, please use the form below. Whether you’re interested in getting involved, collaborating, volunteering, hosting events, or sharing ideas and feedback, we’d love to hear from you. The Sober Bar London is a community-led project, and messages from the community help shape how it grows.You can also contact us directly at [email protected]

Thank you

Thank you for getting in touch.We aim to respond to all messages
within 2–3 working days.The Sober Bar London is a community-led social project and is not able to provide crisis, clinical, or emergency support. If you’re in immediate danger or need urgent help, please contact emergency services.If you’re looking for support around alcohol use or mental wellbeing, the following organisations may be helpful:• Samaritans – 116 123 (UK, 24/7)
samaritans.org• NHS 111 OR 999 in an EmergencyHealth support and local services:• Mind – mind.org.uk• Drinkline – 0300 123 1110(alcohol advice and support)• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk**If you’re reaching out about community involvement, events, or collaboration, we look forward to reading your message and will be in touch soon.

• Okay

Foyez Jitu

CEO & Founding Director

Sober Bar London started with a simple but powerful reality: loneliness.When I became sober, I didn’t just lose alcohol — I lost spaces, friendships, and connection. Nightlife, especially within LGBTQ+ culture, often revolves around drinking. When that disappears, so can your sense of belonging. I found myself asking a simple question: Where do sober people go to feel connected, included, and alive?That question became the beginning of Sober Bar London.My journey to that moment was shaped by lived experience. In 2019, after coming out as gay, I became estranged from my family and experienced homelessness. During that time, I saw how fragile stability really is. I experienced hunger, isolation, and the harsh truth that alcohol and drugs were sometimes easier to access than real support. That reality reshaped how I understand dignity, recovery, and community.Then came 2020 — lockdown, silence, and disconnection. Nightlife disappeared, and connection moved into hidden spaces where alcohol and drugs became ways to cope. Like many others, I became part of that environment, believing it was connection, when often it was loneliness in disguise.In 2025, I met my partner Konstantin, who was rebuilding his life through sobriety. Through that, I found the strength to rebuild too. But sobriety revealed something deeper — when alcohol disappears, many social spaces disappear with it. I realised something powerful: people don’t just need sobriety — they need somewhere to belong.That realisation became Sober Bar London.
Not anti-nightlife — but a new version of it.
A café by day. A vibrant, alcohol-free bar by night.
Music. Creativity. Community. Energy.All still alive — just without alcohol controlling the room.A key part of the vision is proving that a sober space can still operate as a real bar, pub, and café. With 0% beers on tap, alcohol-free spirits, and functional drinks, we recreate the familiar pub environment without alcohol. Café and food services provide daily community use and sustainable income, showing sober spaces can be socially impactful and financially viable.These spaces are not only about food and drink — they are about culture, belonging, and shared experience. Sober Bar London provides a platform for creatives, giving space to DJs, musicians, performers, and artists, ensuring they are supported and paid fairly. Music and creative expression remain core foundations of community life.Community connection also extends beyond the venue. Outdoor activities such as walks, nature-based gatherings, and sober social events encourage people to reconnect with movement, wellbeing, and each other. Within our spaces, traditional pub games such as pool and darts help create inclusive, low-pressure social environments that bring people together across age, background, and identity — reinforcing connection, confidence, and community participation.Another core part of the mission is opportunity. Sober Bar London aims to support young people and those out of work through structured training in barista skills, alcohol-free mixology, hospitality, and customer service. These pathways help individuals build confidence, gain real-world experience, and move towards employment, while creating safe and supportive community environments.My experience of homelessness shaped another important part of the vision — stability. I know what hunger feels like, and how essential dignity is in rebuilding life. In the future, Sober Bar London aims to provide affordable meals, food support, and community outreach, recognising that recovery and wellbeing begin with basic needs being met.The long-term vision is also rooted in restoring and reimagining underused community spaces — bringing life back into places that once brought people together, and transforming them into inclusive environments centred on connection, creativity, and wellbeing.Starting through community pop-ups and people-first engagement, the vision is to grow across UK cities — building a network of sober social spaces and community experiences that strengthen belonging, opportunity, and inclusion.Sober Bar London was born from lived experience, loneliness, and a simple belief:
Connection should not depend on alcohol.
Bringing people together, soberly.

• Close

Kevin Hailey

Advisory Director

My relationship with alcohol is something that has shaped both my personal life and the direction I now take professionally and within the community. Like many in the LGBTQ+ space, social connection was often built around environments where drinking and substance use was the norm. Over time, I came to recognise that my relationship with alcohol and drugs was no longer serving me, and choosing sobriety became a defining and life-changing decision.Sobriety gave me clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose, but it also highlighted a significant gap. There were very few inclusive, welcoming spaces for gay men to connect socially without alcohol. Rather than accept that as the status quo, I felt driven to create something different.I began organising and hosting sober social events across London, creating environments where people could connect authentically without the pressure of drinking. What started as a small idea has grown into a vibrant and supportive community. Seeing individuals arrive feeling unsure or disconnected and leave feeling included, valued, and uplifted has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. It reinforced just how important these spaces are.Alongside this, I bring over 30 years of experience in the London property industry as a self-employed estate agent. My work involves strategic thinking, negotiation, marketing, and managing complex transactions, all underpinned by strong relationship-building and communication skills. I operate with a high level of accountability and professionalism, which I bring into every aspect of my work.The mission of Sober Bar London strongly aligns with both my personal journey and the work I have already been doing within the community. Creating a permanent, inclusive space where people can connect without alcohol is something I am deeply passionate about. It represents progress, visibility, and a much-needed shift in how we think about social connection.As a voluntary director, I am committed to helping build something meaningful and lasting, combining lived experience with professional expertise to support the growth of a space that truly serves the community.

• Close

Tamsin selbie

Advisory Director

I first began my sobriety journey in 2022, when I realised how much of my life was being consumed by alcohol and using it in a negative way. I found it so hard to be connected to others without having a drink in my hand. In my ever-evolving journey with my relationship with alcohol, I’ve concluded that it’s not something that adds to my life in any positive way. I have found sobriety challenging and it has been no easy journey, but it’s been the most rewarding decision I’ve ever made.Now I feel as if I’ve found my feet with my own sobriety, I think it’s my purpose to give back the love and support that was freely given to me. That’s why I made the decision to start speaking openly about my recovery on social media. The point of my TikTok account @SoberJourno was to make people feel less alone by me speaking honestly about my highs and lows of being a recovering alcoholic. I wanted to show that not every addict looks the same, we can have different stories, and there’s no shame in speaking about getting sober as a necessity and a choice. I’ve also started a book club for sober and sober curious people, proving not every gathering has to be held over a glass of wine!My love of storytelling and platforming people’s diverse histories has come from my background in news and media. I’ve been a journalist for nearly a decade, currently working in short-form podcasts. It’s a hard but very rewarding role! I hope it means I can bring a good perspective with how we market our events, professionalism, expertise on who we connect with, and how we make sure lots of people know about the good work we are trying to do here at Sober Bar London.I have spoken with hundreds of people sharing their journeys into sobriety, and the common theme seems to be boredom and connection. People have shared that they don’t know where to go to feel joy in sobriety - that cutting out alcohol feels like a loss when there really is so much to be gained! That’s why I feel so honoured to be asked to join this important CIC. As an advisory director, I am so proud to be part of a team committed to facilitating connections within the sober community by making alcohol-free spaces supportive, joyful and inclusive.

• Close

Loulou Jones

Admin Assistant

Hello, my name is Loulou, I’m 29 years old, autistic, and I will be taking on the role of admin
assistant at The Sober Bar London. I was drawn to volunteer for the Sober Bar London because
I saw that they gave opportunities to people who haven’t been able to work before or have been
unemployed for a long time. As someone who hasn’t been able to work before due to mental
health struggles such as anxiety and agoraphobia, I felt that this was a great opportunity for me
to try and start my journey to employment. I was also drawn to the fact that I would be able to
help with the day to day runnings of the company and also give back to the community, whether
it was in a big or a small way. Being able to sit back and take pride in the fact that I would be
able to help in some way really made me want to work with this company.I would like to use this opportunity to gain skills and develop my knowledge through practical
experience, and also by doing some training within this role. I also want to be able to gain
professional experience within this role, whether it’s making appointments or taking notes in a
meeting, doing this role will help me to understand what it takes to work in an admin role. I also
feel that this role will not only give me confidence professionally but also give me confidence
personally as well. Being able to do a role like this will help me to see that I can take on the
responsibility of carrying out tasks and actually working with others in a work environment.I believe that having an inclusive and community-led space like The Sober Bar London is so
important because I feel that everyone should be able to have a safe and accepting space,
regardless of how someone identifies, what kind of backstory they have, and what experiences
they’ve been through. There should be a space where you can enjoy yourself without having to
worry about being judged or misunderstood. They’re also important because groups like this are
a good way for people to meet others who are like-minded and also may have gone through a
very similar experience, so they might be able to offer advice or support, or even to just make
friends.

• Close

Rogious Wanagombe

Events Assistant

My name is Rogious Wangombe, and I am a motivated, hardworking, and community-minded individual with experience in fitness coaching, hospitality, business administration, sports leadership, and volunteering. Throughout my journey as a professional athlete, coach, entrepreneur, and community volunteer, I have developed a strong passion for helping people, building positive relationships, and contributing to meaningful causes. What attracted me to volunteering with The Sober Bar London is its mission to create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where people can connect, grow, and enjoy themselves without the pressures that can often come with alcohol-focused social spaces. I believe this vision is both inspiring and important, and I wanted the opportunity to be part of an organisation that is making a positive difference in people’s lives and strengthening communities.Through this volunteering opportunity, I hope to continue developing my confidence, communication skills, and ability to engage with people from diverse backgrounds. Having worked in hospitality, customer service, coaching, and community projects, I understand the importance of creating positive experiences for others, and I look forward to learning new skills while contributing to a supportive team environment. I also hope to gain valuable experience in community engagement, event support, leadership, and personal development that will help me progress towards my long-term ambition of serving the public through a career in policing.I strongly believe that sober, inclusive, and community-led spaces are essential because they provide opportunities for people to connect in a healthy, supportive, and positive environment. Such spaces encourage genuine relationships, improve wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and create opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to feel accepted and valued.As someone who has been involved in mentoring, youth development, sports coaching, and community volunteering, I have seen how positive environments can inspire confidence, resilience, and personal growth. The Sober Bar London represents these values and offers an opportunity to bring people together in a way that promotes wellbeing, inclusion, and community spirit. I am excited to contribute my energy, enthusiasm, professionalism, and willingness to learn while supporting a mission that aligns closely with my own values of service, leadership, personal growth, and making a positive impact on the lives of others and the wider community through meaningful volunteer service and engagement.

• Close

Kinga Sawras

Marketing Assistant

Hi, I’m Kinga. I am 24 years old and currently live in Nottingham. I currently work full time as a support worker and outside of this I enjoy concerts, hiking and love spending time with my lurcher puppy, Rocky!During my time at university where I was studying criminology I struggled with binge drinking and my mental health and made the decision to try sobriety. This wasn’t the easiest choice to begin with but I can proudly say that I will be 3 years sober in October, something 21 year old me could have never imagined. I found sobriety quite lonely at the start and made the decision to start a community called ‘Girls Gone Sober’ which is for women and LGBTQ+ people in Nottingham who are sober, sober curious or simply looking for alcohol free events. The group was created so that others who are starting their sober journey aren’t lonely and can be surrounded by others experiencing the same things. It is a safe and non judgemental space. The group originally started as an online space on instagram however soon after I wanted to bring this group to life and started running in person events including poetry nights during dry January and an international women’s day event to celebrate all the amazing women in Nottingham.I was interested in volunteering with the Sober Bar London due to my own personal experiences with being sober and also wanting to gain more knowledge and skills in this sector of work, especially marketing. My long term goal is to work within social media marketing, especially in the charity sector or sober groups. I have created all content for my Girls Gone Sober accounts however would love to gain more experience in content creation, digital design and the different platforms you can use.I believe a sober and inclusive safe is important as it brings people together on all parts of their journey. Whether they’re questioning sobriety, just starting out or are a few years into their journey they should always have a safe space available for them. Sobriety can feel lonely sometimes especially if you are going through addition and recovery and these spaces can support those people. Having safe sober spaces available can also support those who do not yet feel ready to receive recovery support or feel that they don’t need it but want some offer form of support.

• Close

jAMES nUNN

Marketing Assistant

I decided to volunteer for The Sober Bar London because I believe in creating spaces where people feel welcomed, included, and comfortable without the pressure of alcohol, drugs, or anything else that may make someone feel out of place.The idea of a sober bar really interested me because it offers something different. It creates a more positive environment where people can socialise, connect, and enjoy themselves in a way that feels right for them. In my generation, alcohol is not always as central to socialising as it may have been for previous generations, and I think it is important that people have more options when going out. The Sober Bar represents the idea that you can still have fun, meet people, and be part of a community without alcohol needing to be involved.Alongside my interest in the mission, I also saw volunteering as a great opportunity to develop my skills and gain more experience in content creation, social media, and digital marketing. I have previous experience in digital marketing through an internship, where I mainly focused on website management using CMS platforms. I also have some experience managing and running social media pages across platforms such as X, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.Content creation and social media are areas I would really like to grow in. I am especially interested in designing graphics for social media using tools such as Canva and Adobe Express, as well as developing my basic video editing skills through platforms like CapCut. I believe social media is a powerful way to help people connect, discover new spaces, and feel part of something meaningful, which is exactly what The Sober Bar London offers.For me, this opportunity combines my personal interest in marketing and content creation with something that has a genuine positive impact. I believe The Sober Bar London has the potential to make a real difference by challenging the idea that socialising has to revolve around alcohol, and by creating a space where everyone has the chance to feel included, valued, and part of a community.

• Close

Surina Bining

Marketing Assistant

I’m passionate about using my experiences and skills to make a positive difference in my community so volunteering with The Sober Bar London appealed to me because it creates safe, inclusive alcohol-free spaces where people can connect, build friendships and feel accepted without pressure or judgement. Being on my own recovery journey from anorexia, I understand how important compassionate communities and supportive environments can be when rebuilding confidence and wellbeing. I know how powerful it is to have opportunities that encourage genuine connection and personal growth, and I want to help create that experience for others.After being unable to work for 4 years due to anorexia, through this volunteer role I hope to build my confidence further while developing practical skills in marketing. I have experience in marketing and content creation and have created my online space in the eating disorder recovery community. I would love to contribute my creativity, skills and enthusiasm while gaining valuable experience working within a community-led organisation. I also hope to meet new people, learn from different perspectives and become part of a supportive team that shares the same values.I believe sober, inclusive spaces are incredibly important because they offer people genuine opportunities to socialise, volunteer, learn and build meaningful relationships without alcohol being the focus. They also help reduce isolation, challenge stigma and show that enjoyable, welcoming communities can exist for everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.I am excited about the opportunity to give something back while continuing my own journey of growth and recovery. I hope my contribution, however small, helps someone feel welcomed, valued and encouraged to take part. Volunteering with The Sober Bar London feels like a meaningful opportunity to support others, develop personally and professionally, and become part of a community that makes a positive difference. I also appreciate that this organisation welcomes people from different backgrounds, including those who are sober, sober curious, LGBTQ+, or simply looking for a friendly place to belong.Everyone deserves spaces where they can be themselves, feel respected and build confidence without fear of judgement. By volunteering, I hope to encourage others, continue learning from shared experiences and play a small part in strengthening a community built on kindness, inclusion, understanding and hope for the future. I believe conversation, events and welcoming smile can make someone feel less alone, and I would be proud to help create these moments together.

• Close