Henry Beercock has been named a finalist for the Volunteer Award at the BBC Make a Difference Awards, recognised for his contribution to alcohol free social initiatives and community focused projects across Hull. His nomination reflects a year of rapid development, during which several new groups and activities have been established to support wellbeing, connection and accessible social opportunities in the city.
Henry’s involvement in community work began after a major lifestyle change. In October 2023, after 17 years in his family’s property business, he stepped away to address an unhealthy relationship with alcohol and food. To support this shift, he travelled to Thailand for a month long fitness retreat, where he adopted new routines.
Over the following months, he lost more than seven stone, took up running, completed marathons and endurance events, and became increasingly engaged in wellbeing activities. These experiences led directly to the creation of several initiatives that now operate across Hull.
Alcohull Free began as a social media page showcasing alcohol free drink options available in Hull and East Yorkshire. Interest grew quickly, highlighting a wider demand for inclusive social spaces.
Today, Alcohull Free has developed into a community network of more than 100 members through a WhatsApp group. The project now offers regular meet ups, quizzes, walks, fitness sessions and social events. Its purpose is to provide accessible social opportunities for people who are alcohol free, reducing their alcohol intake, or looking for alternative ways to spend time with others.
The AHF Running Club grew naturally from the Alcohull Free community. Many members wanted to become more active but felt unsure about joining traditional running clubs. The group meets weekly at Hull Marina and uses a beginner friendly run‑walk approach. Participants have progressed from short intervals to completing organised races, including 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons and full marathons. The club provides structured support for new runners and opportunities for members to work towards personal fitness goals.
Empty Chairs Hull was established after Henry was encouraged to bring the international initiative to the city. The project aims to reduce loneliness by offering informal meet‑ups where people can talk, connect and meet new people.
The first event attracted one attendee; sessions now regularly draw between 10 and 20 participants. The format is intentionally simple - people can arrive, sit down and join a conversation without any pressure.
Henry and his wife, Lauren, are developing an alcohol free beer brand, Schmaltz Brew Co. Their first product, Tropic’ull, is a tropical IPA created in partnership with a local brewery. The project aims to contribute to Hull’s growing alcohol free market by offering a locally produced option.
Henry is also collaborating with Hull City Council on the Low & No Alcohol Zone, an initiative designed to highlight venues across the city that provide quality alcohol free choices. The project supports local businesses and helps residents and visitors identify inclusive places to socialise.
What makes Henry’s story remarkable is not only the transformation he achieved for himself, but the impact it has had on people across Hull. In choosing to rebuild his own health, confidence and wellbeing, he's created spaces that helped others do the same.
On the road to making his own life better, Henry has helped make Hull better too - strengthening community ties, championing inclusive social spaces and proving how individual change can spark collective progress.
Find out more about Alcohull Free or follow Henry's journey via Instagram.