Local spotlight - Arcus
During the pandemic many local organisations have suffered hardship with many services temporarily closing. But we'd like to shine the spotlight on those who've worked tirelessly for the Darlington public in keeping their community safe. Today we are featuring Arcus who are a counselling and social support service for LGBT+ people.
Andi Cull, a Counsellor with Arcus kindly shares how they have been making a difference during the pandemic.
Can you tell us about your group, service or organisation and how it started?
Arcus is a community organisation, currently unincorporated. We started Arcus as we sadly had to close Darlington ARQ. Some of the counselling team felt our excellent work needed to continue. We run Arcus alongside our private practices. We provide therapy, online and one to one support as well as support groups for LGBT people of all ages. We link in with existing group that provide similar servicers in the area. We run the Arcus Forum which is a community discussion and action group; that links in with the police and council.
Can you share how your group, service or organisation is making a difference and who you have helped?
Since we started in February this year we have provided 200+ counselling hours for free to LGBT people in Darlington, Our Facebook page(s) and online support provides services to 2000 people who are LGBT or allies. We have worked with the council to affect changes that benefit LGBT people, most recently they are now considering gender neutral facilities within council properties.
Thinking about the pandemic and who you have helped, have you learnt anything from your experience?
During the pandemic we had to change our services to over the phone or internet. We soon learned that this is an effective tool and we can and still do continue to reach people who ae isolated and can not come to visit us in person. We also ran a covid helpline where anyone could call and speak to a counsellor without an appointment.
What has been a highlight for your group, service or organisation so far?
It has to be the arcus Forum, we have a group of LGBT people who are meeting regularly with the Police and Council and are affecting real change.
What are your hopes for the future?
We are soon going to incorporate and have an official legal structure which means that we can apply for funding for some exciting projects we have in the pipeline. We also, have just recently been able to provide all our counselling services for free!!
Do you have a message or words of encouragement for anyone who needs help or may be worried about lock down restrictions easing?
Talk to us, we can help you through it!
You can contact Arcus by the following methods (usually between 8am and 8pm):
07434 794059
