The Clink celebrates ten years of empowerment and second chances

Amidst the picturesque village of Styal, is a restaurant like no other.

This year, as The Clink celebrates its tenth anniversary, the team reflects on a decade of remarkable achievements and the countless lives they’ve touched along the way.

“We’re so proud of how far we’ve come,” said Gail, General Manager of The Clink.

“Ten years ago, we set out with a clear vision: to equip women from HMP Styal with the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to start fresh. Looking back, it’s been an incredibly fulfilling journey.”

The Clink has remained steadfast in its mission, transforming the lives of women transitioning from incarceration to reintegration. Housed in a beautifully refurbished church, the restaurant is both a sanctuary and a launchpad, where every meal served represents resilience, empowerment, and hope.

A unique recipe for change

At the heart of The Clink is a simple yet powerful idea: provide women with the tools to rebuild their lives while delivering an exceptional dining experience. Over the past decade, this recipe has proved to be transformative, not just for the women involved but for the community as a whole.

“Our students often come to us unsure of their abilities and lacking confidence,” Gail explained. “But through structured training and constant support, we see them grow, not just as chefs but as individuals ready to take on the world. Watching that transformation is one of the most rewarding aspects of what we do.”

The Clink offers its students the chance to gain qualifications—primarily NVQs at levels two and three—in professional cookery and food and beverage service. These qualifications are lifelines, equipping women with the skills and credentials to secure meaningful employment.

Gail emphasised the importance of financial independence: “We ensure our students earn a living wage while they train. This allows them to save for life after release, giving them a financial safety net to build upon.”

Support extends far beyond the kitchen. “We help with everything from job placements to interview prep and even provide professional attire through partnerships with clothing companies,” Gail continued.

“Our role doesn’t stop when they leave us—we stay involved for a year after they secure employment, assisting with housing, childcare, and navigating benefits. It’s all part of making sure they succeed.”

Memorable milestones and challenges

Over the past ten years, The Clink has celebrated numerous milestones that highlight its success. From accolades as one of the top restaurants in the Wilmslow area to rave reviews for its seasonal and locally sourced menu, the restaurant has continually raised the bar for fine dining.

“We’ve been fortunate to receive consistent support from repeat customers,” Gail said. “But our focus now is on ensuring that those who haven’t yet experienced The Clink have the chance to do so. The changes we’ve made to offer a more casual fine dining experience have been really well-received.”

Yet, like any long-term project, The Clink has faced its share of challenges. “The prison population has changed over the years, and early releases have made it a bit harder to retain students,” Gail acknowledged. “But we’re hopeful that things will stabilise, allowing us to continue providing transformative opportunities.”

For Gail, the most memorable moments are those where she witnesses students discover their potential. “Every student who completes their qualification with us is a success story,” she said. “These are often the first certificates they’ve ever earned, and the pride they feel is palpable.”

Stories of transformation

Behind every dish served at The Clink lies a story of resilience. Gail shares numerous anecdotes of students whose lives have been profoundly changed by their time at the restaurant.

“One student came back to visit after starting work elsewhere. She brought us a cake she had made and said, ‘I’m so happy I stuck it out. This is where I am now.’ Moments like that remind us why we do what we do,” Gail said.

In the high-pressure environment of a professional kitchen, the journey is rarely easy. “A lot of our students come in feeling overwhelmed,” Gail admitted. “But we work with them every step of the way, encouraging them to push through. One of the most satisfying things is seeing someone who doubted themselves at the start leave with a sense of confidence and accomplishment.”

For many students, The Clink represents a turning point—a chance to rewrite their stories. “It’s not just about learning to cook; it’s about discovering new passions and building a sense of self-worth,” Gail explained. “Even small changes can have a profound impact on their lives and relationships.”

A community effort

The Clink’s success wouldn’t be possible without the support of its wider community. From loyal customers to external partnerships, the restaurant has built a network of allies committed to its mission.

“Our customers are constantly amazed by the quality of food and service they receive,” Gail said. “That’s something we want more people to experience. The more awareness we can raise, the more support we can garner for our students and their journeys.”

Partnerships with local and national organisations have also played a crucial role.

“Our support workers collaborate with businesses across the country to ensure our students have opportunities waiting for them upon release. It’s a real team effort.”

Looking ahead: the next decade at The Clink

As The Clink celebrates its tenth anniversary, Gail remains optimistic about the future. “For Styal, my hope is to continue raising awareness about the incredible work we’re doing and to welcome even more people through our doors,” she said.

With a new CEO taking the reins, the team is excited about the potential for new initiatives and expanded impact. “We’re always looking for ways to improve and grow,” Gail adds. “The past ten years have been incredible, and I can’t wait to see what the next ten will bring.”

For those considering a visit, Gail has a simple message: “Come and see it for yourself. Experience the passion, the dedication, and the incredible food. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a chance to be part of something truly special.”

10-Year celebration events

To mark this remarkable milestone, The Clink has planned a series of celebratory events that showcase its journey and achievements:

10-Year Celebration Afternoon Tea Date & Time: Wednesday, 23rd April, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

10-Year Celebration Lunch Date & Time: Friday, 25th April, 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM

10-Year Celebration Dinner Date & Time: Friday, 25th April, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Tickets for these events can be purchased online here, and all proceeds will go towards supporting The Clink’s ongoing mission of transforming lives through training and opportunity.

This celebration isn’t just about looking back—it’s about moving forward with renewed purpose. As Gail summed it up, “We’re empowering these women with skills and excellence in the kitchen, transforming lives one meal at a time.”

Location: The Clink Restaurant, Styal, SK9 4HR