Arc was established in 2004 to relieve sickness and protect mental good health through the use of the arts and creative activity in North West England, in particular but not exclusively in Stockport.
Arc is an award-winning charity which helps people who are experiencing emotional or psychological distress to become resilient, healthy and active citizens. Creativity and the arts are at the centre of everything we do. The arts can have a tangible impact on well-being and recovery, and they are essential for individuals and communities to flourish.
Each year Arc supports over 200 adults and young people, across Stockport, who are experiencing acute psychological distress. We do this in secure psychiatric wards, out in the community, and in our Arc Centre studios.
Arc is a creative arts organisation based in Stockport, specialising in workshops, wellbeing and community development. We work in a few key areas in the community and in our central Arc Centre and Gallery.
At Arc we help people to manage their mental health and increase their wellbeing by exploring what it means to live well; to experience meaning and purpose; to flourish and to make a difference. We provide opportunities for people to explore their creativity, connect with each other and learn new skills.
What we offer
A little more detail on some of our key programmes:-
Arts for Wellbeing is our community outreach programme, the ideal entry point into Arc with courses based in venues across Stockport. Each course runs for 12 weeks and is designed to support people recovering from severe and enduring mental illness. Led by a professional artist alongside a volunteer and social work student, each workshop brings art making and team building together, to help participants improve their self-esteem, wellbeing and feel more connected to their local community. Some participants begin their involvement with Arc by joining the 12 week Outreach course and then progressing onto the longer 6 month Challenge Programme.
Young Peoples Arc is a dynamic initiative reaching out to the most vulnerable young people, delivered in partnership with statutory and community agencies. Each year YPA offers over 100 young people aged 5 to 25 the chance to be creative, have fun and meet others who share their experience. It is funded by BBC Children in Need and SMBC.