Posted on 01 May 2025
We’re building a stronger, healthier community in Islington thanks to the Arc community centre
The Arc Centre, in Islington, is one of our 10 community centres supported by Hyde Foundation, dedicated to improving the wellbeing of local residents. The centre provides essential support to individuals and families facing challenges like food insecurity and social isolation. Initiatives include a community garden, a food bank, wellness programmes and social spaces.
Challenges
Islington is one of London’s most diverse boroughs and faces significant social and economic challenges.
A report from the local council indicates that Islington has one of the highest rates of child poverty in the UK. Additionally, loneliness and mental health issues have been exacerbated by economic hardship and the lingering effects of the pandemic.
Many residents lack access to nutritious food, safe social spaces, and opportunities for physical and mental wellbeing.
The Arc’s response
The Arc Centre has taken a multi-faceted approach to address these challenges through:
- The community food bank: Providing essential food supplies to families and individuals in need to reduce food insecurity. The food bank has served hundreds of families, ensuring that vulnerable residents don’t go hungry.
- Wellness and fitness programmes: Yoga classes, meditation sessions, and other wellness activities to promote mental and physical health. Attendees have reported reduced stress and anxiety, with many stating they feel more connected to their community.
- Community garden: A space where residents can grow produce while fostering a sense of community and environmental awareness. The community garden has not only provided fresh produce but has also created a space for collaboration and learning, where residents can develop new skills and friendships.
- Venue hire for local groups: Supporting local businesses, artists, and community organisations by providing an accessible space for events and workshops. The café and event space have become central meeting points, reducing social isolation and fostering local engagement.
The Arc is more than just a community hub - it’s a lifeline for many in Islington. By addressing key social issues such as food insecurity, loneliness, and mental health challenges, the centre has strengthened the local community and improved the quality of life for many residents.
Coffee and social value
This year, the Arc partnered with SEND Coffee, a non-profit organisation that trains local young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) for careers in hospitality.
Young people with SEND often struggle to find training and employment opportunities, limiting their chances for financial independence and personal growth. The Arc wanted to address these issues by enhancing the café’s role within the community.
Working with SEND Coffee was made possible by the sponsorship of a brand new kitchen at the centre through our Match My Project platform.
Contractors Ian Williams and Daas transformed the kitchen into a bright, well-equipped kitchen with plenty of storage for the centre’s food bank and new café.
As well as a welcoming social hub, the café now serves as a hands-on training space where young people with SEND develop barista skills, customer service experience and workplace confidence.
Meet Susan - Managing Director of the Arc
“With a background in domestic violence support, I understand how vital it is to create spaces where vulnerable people feel safe, heard and supported. That ethos is at the heart of everything we do at the Arc.
“One of the highlights of my week is hosting our weekly coffee mornings – a lovely gathering where elderly residents can come together, share stories, and build lasting friendships.
"It might seem like a small thing, but the impact is huge. Loneliness is something no one should face alone, and at the Arc, we’re proud to provide moments of connection, joy and comfort.
“I’ve been with Arc since the very beginning, and it’s been an honour to help grow our community hub into the welcoming, vibrant space it is today.
“Recently, I’ve had the pleasure of overseeing our kitchen refurbishment which was generously funded and fitted by the brilliant team at Hyde.
"This new kitchen will be the heart of our exciting new onsite bakery, which is coming soon. We can’t wait to serve up freshly baked treats to the community.
“The Arc is more than just a building – it’s a lifeline, a launchpad, and a local treasure. Thank you for being part of our journey.”
Local resident David, summed up the Arc by saying: “I love coming to the Arc. It's filled with friendliness, warmth and kindness. It's got a sense of community and it's very welcoming.”