A successful first 12 months

Since we opened in May 2018, many positive changes to the Westcliff estate in Scunthorpe can be seen.

We are a community and wellbeing hub, in the heart of the Westcliff. We opened to offer local people a place to enjoy spending time and somewhere to access a variety of services and activities.

Since opening, over 50 events and regular activities have taken place, including weekly bingo, knit and natter mornings, money advice, healthy eating workshops, table top sales and family craft sessions.

Ongo staff also regularly base themselves here, along with other organisations such as Humberside Police and North Lincolnshire Council; to be on hand to offer support, advice and guidance to local people. This has been a success with around 200 people using the various support services each month.

There have also been over 70 new employment and volunteering opportunities for local people as a result us opening, with Westcliff Community Works, in the Post Office, Arcafé, reception and other roles around the building including apprenticeships and partnering up with North Lindsey College students.

Jan Williams, Head of Community Development, said: “When we opened The Arc we hoped it would be a place the whole community would use and enjoy, and somewhere for people to access services, support and training, which has been so well received.

“We’re still really keen to work with the local community to help shape the future of The Arc and what’s on offer there, so if anyone has any suggestions, please get in touch with the team. There’s lots planned for the next 12 months and we’d love to see as many regular faces and new ones visit us.”

Tackling anti social behaviour has been another focus in the Westcliff area, and since we have been open over £3,000 in external funding has been gained to provide youth activities, such as boxing, in order for engagement with young people to take place.  One to one support has also been positive, with a number of 16-18 year olds successfully gaining apprenticeships and paid employment.  Partnership working with other organisations such as Youth Offending Service and Safer Neighbourhoods has strengthened and is ongoing in order to further tackle any issues arising on the estate.