Claiming to be the UK’s first ‘dry bar and café’, The Brink opened in Liverpool in 2011 but was forced to close by the pandemic – now it has been reopened by national charity The Forward Trust. Tony McDonough reports

A ‘dry bar and café’ in Liverpool that was forced to close due to the financial impact of COVID lockdowns has opened its doors once again.

Located in Parr Street in the city centre, The Brink first launched in 2011 and claimed to be the first venue of its kind in the UK. It was popular with people who had quit alcohol and others who were often turned off by the city centre’s excessive drinking culture.

Staffed by people who have themselves struggled with alcohol or addiction, The Brink made the difficult decision to stop operating the café once lockdown restrictions were lifted back in 2020, due to the considerable financial impact.

Now in the hands of national charity The Forward Trust and with a new look, the space will serve an array of non-alcoholic beverages, as well as locally-sourced fresh food. It will open each day between 10am and 3pm. It also hopes to resume its event calendar.

All of the profits generated from food and drink sales will be given back to the Merseyside recovery community with The Brink providing support for those in recovery from all forms of addiction in a safe, stigma-free environment.

General manager Lucy McLachlan said: “The Brink is back, and we’re excited to welcome people from all walks of life through our doors once again. As a dry bar, our aim is to steer the focus away from alcohol by promoting a healthier lifestyle and to invite the recovery community, students, families, and the general public alike.

“COVID-19 presented many challenges for us, like so many others, so we want to celebrate the achievements of people who have overcome addiction, as well as helping those who have been affected by the pandemic and providing them with a safe space to receive support.”

David Humphreys services manager at The Forward Trust, added: “The reopening of The Brink marks a new chapter for us. Known to many as a retreat for the recovering, we’ve also built up a reputation as a place to enjoy great food, great drink and a great atmosphere for anyone that visits us.

“We can only continue though with the support from the general public and the businesses that are located right here on our doorstep so we hope that everyone will come and see us and welcome us back with open arms.”