Highland Sober Collective

A Vibrant, Alcohol-Free Community

The Highland Sober Collective is an exciting new initiative designed to bring people together in a supportive, alcohol-free community. Whether you're sober, sober-curious, or simply looking for meaningful social experiences without alcohol, this project provides a welcoming space to connect, create, and explore new ways to socialise.

Get Involved

Phase 1: Building the Core Group (April – August 2025)

Welcome to the Highland Sober Collective! This vibrant and supportive community is for those who are sober-curious or already committed to sober living. Our aim in Phase 1 is to create a strong, engaged group where we can share experiences, co-create, and build a thriving alcohol-free social scene together.

Throughout six engaging and thought-provoking sessions, we will focus on:

Engaging & Fun: Creative workshops, movement, and nature connection.
Reflective & Supportive: Group discussions and sharing circles.
Future-Focused: Designing exciting sober events for Phase 2!

We’re looking for people who are ready to build something meaningful. Participants must commit to all six sessions.

Disclaimer

The Highland Sober Collective is not a treatment or recovery programme and does not offer professional support for alcohol or drug addiction. While some participants may be in recovery, this project is not recovery-focused. This is a community initiative designed to create inclusive, sober spaces for connection, creativity, and social experiences. It is open to anyone interested in sober living- whether through recovery, personal choice, or curiosity.

The project does not provide medical advice or counselling. Anyone seeking support for substance use or mental health concerns is encouraged to contact qualified professionals or relevant support services.

PLEASE NOTE THIS PHASE OF THE PROJECT IS NOW FULLY BOOKED - PLEASE FLL IN THE FOMR BELOW TO BE ADDED TO THE WAITLING LIST IN CASE ANYONE DROPSOUT AND TO BE KEPT UP TO DATE ON THE NEXT PHASE ON THE PROJECT.

Key Dates & Sessions:

Saturday 26th April - Get to Know Each Other Session
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Café 1668, Inverness
Facilitators: Laura (Highland Wellness Collective) & Caroline Inckle (Studio Constella)
Objective:

Build trust and connection within the group.
Foster open discussions about motivations for sobriety.
Create a mini manifesto for the collective.

10th May - Zine-Making Workshop with Highland Zine Both
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Circus Artspace, Unit 8, Telford Street Retail Park, Carsegate Road, Inverness, IV3 8EX (space donated by Circus Artspace)
Facilitator: Iona from Highland Zine Bothy
Details: Zines are self-published booklets, perfect for sharing creative ideas and uplifting marginalized voices.
Objective:

Engage in DIY creative expression through zine-making.
Celebrate personal stories and build community.

31st May - Water Activities with Blue Space Highland
Time: 10am start (duration around 3 hrs plus travel)
Location: Royal Findhorn Yacht Club
Facilitators: Moray Kayaking and Paddle Bliss Nairn from Blue Space Highlands
Activity: Sea kayaking & paddle boarding
Objective:

Connect with nature and one another through water-based activities.

14th June - Pottery Painting with Tilly and Roo & Walk Along the Caledonian Canal
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Treehouse, Carsegate Rd, Inverness
Facilitator: Jen from Tilly & Roo
Objective:

Relax, paint pottery, and engage in meaningful conversations.
Walk and connect with nature while sharing insights on sober living.

5th July - Outdoor Art Session with Arts in Nature
Time: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Inverness Botanic Gardens
Facilitator: Charlotte from Arts in Nature
Objective:

Explore your creative side in nature through outdoor art activities.
Reflect on personal sober journeys while creating in a supportive environment.

19th July - Vision & Planning Session: Shaping Phase Two
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Café 1668, Inverness
Facilitator: Laura - Highland Well-Ness Collective
Objective: