Our organisation provides services to over 30,000 people and 1,000 groups each year. Our existing programme of activities is a mixture of services provided directly by us; by community groups; or by statutory agencies. We develop our programmes through listening to the needs of the community and are always open to finding partners and initiatives to increase our coverage.

(You can find out what classes and activities are available in our Centres Programme PDF publication here)

Our approach is based on the idea that prevention is better than cure. We seek to avoid creating long term dependency but to allow people to gain authority over their own lives. People who use our services will have access to

• a welcoming, safe and supportive environment
• a sense of belonging and information about opportunities available in the local community
• opportunities to meet and learn about people of other cultures
• encouragement to have respect for the environment
• opportunities to initiate new organisations and projects
• skilled staff who will assist people with problem solving

Community Development concentrates on working with groups and organisations through an integrated programme of community development, research and information. We support employment and business initiatives in both the community and private sectors. We develop the capacity and skills of the members of the community in such a way that they are better able to identify and help meet their needs and to participate more fully in society.

Healthy Living provides a wide range of facilities including cultural and arts activities, recreation, food and horticulture, charity shop, leisure and sport. Poverty and illness often go together. We aim to prevent ill health through the services and activities we offer which are affordable for those on low incomes.

Lifelong Learning covers our work with individuals from babies in arms to pensioners. Lifelong learning activities help develop personal skills of confidence, communication, teamwork and leadership as well as vocational skills through informal and accredited educational provision for children, young people and adults.