The Sober Supper Club hosted its first event of 2026.
Launched by Guernsey’s Health Improvement Commission, the club brings people together in a relaxed, alcohol-free setting to socialise, share experiences and explore healthier lifestyle choices. The events combine food, conversation and community, offering an alternative to traditional drinking culture.
Rather than returning to old routines, the club aims to provide ongoing support and connection. Attendees have spoken about the benefits of cutting back on alcohol, including improved wellbeing, better sleep and stronger social connections. For some, the experience has been transformative, helping them reassess long-standing habits and priorities. The Sober Supper Club is expected to continue throughout the year, with organisers hoping it will inspire more people to embrace mindful drinking — or give up alcohol altogether — in a supportive, social environment.
February's Sober Supper Club welcomed mother and daughter Emily Chadwick-Vint and Jill Chadwick to speak about their journeys towards healthier living. A shared decision to rethink their relationship with alcohol has strengthened the bond between Emily Chadwick-Vint and Jill Chadwick.
For Emily Chadwick-Vint, giving up alcohol wasn’t about restriction — it was about rediscovery. Speaking at February's Sober Supper Club, Emily reflected on how stepping away from drinking helped her reassess the way she had been living. What began as a temporary break soon revealed something deeper.
I just found things that light me up, I realised that I’d been living in a way that didn’t align with me — I was on autopilot a lot of the time, but I decided that this was how I now wanted to live.”
Emily described how alcohol had quietly become part of her routine, shaping how she spent her time and socialised.
Without it, she began to notice new energy, clarity and a stronger sense of purpose. The change wasn’t just physical, but emotional too. She spoke about feeling more present and more connected — both to herself and to others — as she built new habits that better reflected her values.
Her message is simple: removing alcohol can open the door to a more intentional and fulfilling way of living.
For Jill Chadwick, it was about far more than just giving up alcohol — it was about rediscovering connection, both with others and with yourself.
Speaking at the Sober Supper Club, Jill shared how stepping away from drinking has changed the way she socialises and experiences everyday life. What began as a challenge during Dry January has evolved into something much more meaningful. She highlighted how alcohol had often been tied to routine — a default part of evenings, celebrations and social events. Removing it, she said, created space to be more present and intentional. Rather than feeling like she was missing out, Jill described a shift in perspective.
Socialising without alcohol allowed for more genuine conversations and a stronger sense of connection, something she believes is at the heart of the Sober Supper Club’s success. She also acknowledged the challenges, particularly in environments where drinking is the norm. But through the support of others — including her daughter Emily — she found confidence in making a different choice. Jill said the experience has encouraged her to question habits that once felt automatic, replacing them with ones that better reflect how she wants to live.
It’s not about giving something up,” she suggested, “it’s about gaining something better.