Member Testimonials

hear from our Catering Assistants at The ARC

Our Catering Assistants play a vital role in supporting and guiding others, drawing on their own experiences to inspire, empower and make a real difference. Their stories highlight the positive impact of mentoring — from building confidence and independence to helping others navigate challenges with understanding and care.

Here our Catering Assistants share what the role means to them and the difference it has made in the lives of those they support.

Danny

Catering Assistant

I came to the ARC when it first opened, it felt strange to be in a new place but everyone made me feel very welcome. As the years went by I met lots of new people and made new friends. I have learnt a lot of new skills that I didn't have before, this includes helping other members of the ARC, Makaton and life skills such as travel training. I didn't think that I would be able to dance but I was encouraged to give it a go, my confidence has grown, learnt new skills and I now have a love for dancing. I have been a Catering Assistant for over 3 years helping the members and staff and by having this job and learning new skills it has helped me to get a job at Anfield which I love.

Sue

Catering Assistant

I have learnt a lot of new skills at the ARC since I started, I have done travel training and cooking. I am trying something new and learning how to dance. I have a job in the ARC as a Catering Assistant and I help the other members. Being at the ARC I have made friends and my confidence has increased. I went to the conference in Blackpool and stayed for 2 nights, last time I went I only went for the day.

Sophie

Catering Assistant

I came to the ARC after leaving college, I was really shy and struggled to make friends. At the ARC I'm now confident that I can try new things and learn new life skills. I have a job now as a Catering Assistant. I help and support the other members. I like going to the games night, makaton and to the disco. When I come to the ARC I feel happy.

Jess

Catering Assistant

I have learnt new skills. I do Makaton, dancing with Chloe and going to the meetings where I have my voice heard. My dream was to get a job, I am now a Catering Assistant in the ARC. I help people. I have lots of confidence now and like to meet new people and try new things.

Adam

Catering Assistant

When I first started I was so nervous, there were new people I did not know. Vikki showed me around, she is really nice. I have made a lot of friends and we now go out together for a meal once a week. I have learnt a lot of new skills at the ARC. I have used my travel training to go out on the bus. My skills have helped me to get a job as a Catering Assistant. I enjoy myself here, it's like a family. I love to work with people and help them learn new skills.