Calkerris
The Venue
Community
Connecting our members with each other, with Prescot and with the wider world around them.
Community is at the very core of what The ARC Activity & Education Centre is all about. We believe that belonging — to a group, a place, a network of friends — is one of the most powerful things we can offer our members. A strong community brings joy, purpose and a sense of identity that goes far beyond the walls of our centre.
From integrating into the wider Prescot community through real-world activities, to building friendships at our social groups and enjoying shared experiences on holidays together, we create opportunities for our members to connect, contribute and feel genuinely valued.
We also work hard to support the people around our members — their parents, carers and families — as well as forging meaningful partnerships with local organisations. Because a truly inclusive community is one that works together.
Community at The ARC
Community Integration Programmes
Being part of the wider community is something everyone deserves — and our Community Integration Programmes are designed to make that a reality for our members. We organise and support a wide range of activities that take members out into the local area and beyond, building familiarity, confidence and a genuine sense of belonging.
Activities include visits to local shops, leisure centres, parks, cafés, cultural venues and community events. Each experience is carefully planned to be inclusive, accessible and enjoyable — giving members the chance to participate in everyday community life and be seen as the valued citizens they are.
Socials & After Service Groups
Friendship and fun don't have to stop when the working day ends. Our Socials and After Service Groups provide members with the opportunity to meet, socialise and enjoy activities together in a relaxed and welcoming environment outside of regular sessions.
Whether it's a film night, a bowling trip, a meal out or a seasonal celebration, these events are a fantastic way for members to build lasting friendships, try new things and simply enjoy spending time together. For many of our members, these social connections are some of the most meaningful parts of their week.
Parent / Carer Advocacy
We know that the people who support our members every day — parents, carers and family members — often need a voice too. Our Parent and Carer Advocacy work is about making sure that families are heard, informed and empowered to advocate for the best possible outcomes for their loved ones.
We run regular parent and carer groups where families can come together, share experiences, offer each other support and hear from professionals and guest speakers on topics that matter to them. We also provide one-to-one guidance to help families navigate systems, understand their rights and feel confident in speaking up on behalf of the people they care for.
Yearly Holidays
A holiday is something everyone should have the chance to enjoy. Each year, The ARC organises supported group holidays that give members the exciting opportunity to travel, explore new places and create memories together — often experiences they wouldn't otherwise have access to.
Our holidays are fully supported, carefully planned and inclusive for all members regardless of their support needs. From seaside breaks to city trips, every detail is taken care of so that members and their families can look forward to a safe, enjoyable and truly special experience. For many of our members, the annual holiday is a highlight of the year.
Service Collaborations
We are stronger together. The ARC actively seeks out and nurtures partnerships with other local organisations, charities, health services and community groups to broaden the opportunities available to our members and enrich the support we can offer.
Through collaboration, we can connect members to specialist services, co-deliver programmes that benefit the wider community and share expertise that helps everyone involved grow. We're proud of the relationships we've built across Prescot, Knowsley and beyond — and we're always open to exploring new ways of working with like-minded organisations who share our values.
Why Community Matters
Inclusion in Real Life
We believe that inclusion isn't something that happens in isolation — it happens in shops, parks, cafés and community spaces. Everything we do is geared towards helping our members participate fully in the world around them.
Friendships That Last
The bonds formed between members at The ARC are genuine and long-lasting. Our social events and group activities are designed to nurture those friendships and give people a network they can rely on.
Rooted in Prescot
We are proud to be part of the Prescot community. Our local partnerships and integration activities reflect our deep commitment to making The ARC a positive, connected and contributing part of the area we call home.
Supporting the Whole Family
Community at The ARC extends to parents and carers too. By bringing families together and giving them a platform to connect and advocate, we create a wider community of support around every single member.