Controlled Drinking Environment

Or CDE Hub for short!

Our CDE Hub for short was introduced as a solution to the antisocial behavior and street drinking present in Birkenhead. The concept behind a controlled drinking environment is that there are limits on alcohol consumption – hostel residents sign in their alcohol, and access it during set hours of the day through one of our dedicated officers, who offer advice, emotional support, and alternative options to their alcoholic beverages.

The aim is not necessarily abstinence – at least not immediately. The residents themselves exercise autonomy, setting goals with the help of our team. This service aims to minimize harm, develop healthier coping mechanisms, identify triggers, monitor progress, and adapt to each individual.

 

Beyond this, the CDE Hub team offers ‘diversionary activities’, providing socialization opportunities that don’t revolve around social drinking. Whether it’s mocktail-making sessions, day trips across Merseyside, or poetry workshops, the CDE Hub is an adaptive environment to suit the needs of its beneficiaries.

 

“This place has been a life saver for me. It has made me realise that what I used to drink was killing me and making me a horrible person. Here, I can not only try to reduce the amount and what I drink, but no-one judges me like outside.” – Gary

New Developments

In 2026, the CDE Hub underwent an upgrade with a new base inside the YMCA Wirral hostel building. Now, we can operate from either our garden location, or our cozy lounge-style location. With a TV, record player, kitchen, coffee machine and library, it’s a safe and homely space for relaxation for our community of those experiencing homelessness and alcohol consumption challenges.

Lived experience of substance/alcohol use and recovery is greatly valued when recruiting for the CDE team. Clients feel free of judgement when opening up to a team member who has been in their position. The trust developed here allows for referrals to be made to external partners who can provide additional support to ensure that the individuals health and wellbeing is holistically reinforced.