Allander Resource Centre wins major inclusion award

The Allander Resource Centre in Bearsden has won a major award after being described as an 'incredible facility' which provides a vital and inclusive service for adults with learning disabilities in East Dunbartonshire.

The centre has been recognised for Diversity in the Public Sector just 18 months after opening its doors.

The honour came as part of The Herald and GenAnalytics’ 2024 Diversity Awards Scotland.

Presenting the award, judge Elaine Boyd OBE – who uses the ARC and is a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire – passed on congratulations on behalf of King Charles III.

She said, 'As someone with a disability it is critical that disabled people have access to sport and lesiure facilities for their wellbeing too. I attended the Paris Paralympics and hope it has a lasting impact in creating more opportunities to participate in sport.'

The ARC, a purpose-build facility which adjoins the Allander Leisure Centre in Bearsden, was declared a stand-out winner by judges who said it boasts an incredible space unique in UK and is fully integrated with the community, fosters partnerships, and delivers a vital and inclusive service.

The centre provides specialist facilities for adults with severe and complex learning disabilities, with nearly 90 attending for day services during the week. It is also a base for a further 60 people, who are mainly supported in the community, who use it as a base for art and drama sessions, work and meetings.

It was built by East Dunbartonshire Council, working closely with partners including East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership and the Leisure and Culture Trust.

The facility includes:

• Dementia, rebound, sensory and physiotherapy treatment rooms
• Arts & crafts and music rooms
• A dance studio, which is also used for fitness, drama and evening social activities
• A sensory garden
• Café, kitchen and dining facilities
• Flexible meeting rooms, quiet spaces and office
• Access to the hydrotherapy pool, swimming pool and games hall within the Allander Leisure Centre.