How does your membership benefit you?

with Gary Rutherford, Founder/Strategic Co-ordinator, ARC Fitness

ARC Fitness was founded in Derry~Londonderry four years ago, initially as an online signposting service to support individuals struggling with addiction and substance use disorders. Through time and considerable effort, it has now become a highly reputable recovery organisation and the only one in the UK to utilise a specific health, wellbeing, and physical activity-based approach to addiction recovery. ARC is deeply rooted in the heart of our community and is built on lived experience. We provide access to professionally qualified mental health nurses, fully accredited therapists and counsellors, personal trainers, and accredited recovery coaches.

ARC has been a member of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce for almost one year. The decision to join was driven by the challenging landscape within the community and voluntary sectors as well as the recognition of how important it was to establish connections and support within the local business network. Our membership goal was to really strengthen our relationship with other businesses by delivering service provision to tie in with our strategic sustainability objectives.

The rise in health harms caused by substance use and addiction is impacting business owners and organisations – which means ARC’s specific wellbeing services are needed more than ever. Being a member of the Chamber consolidates our values of collaboration, innovation, and the power of ‘connection’ amongst those working in all sectors – after all, addiction doesn’t care what sector you work in.

The greatest benefit for ARC is being connected with like-minded and forward-thinking Chamber members who want to see local companies succeed and grow. Chamber networking events helped us to meet with business owners and leaders in a relaxed, friendly, and encouraging manner – an opportunity we wouldn’t have had otherwise. The ‘Good News Friday’ initiative is also a great way to keep abreast of local success stories.

I would encourage all businesses to join the Chamber. Navigating today’s challenging economic environment is easier when you’re connected to excellent support and information. The Chamber team have provided ARC with much-needed advice as well as opportunities around learning and organisational development.

The connections forged through our membership have enabled us to change the landscape of addiction service provision in the North West. More importantly, that means we have been able to bring hope to so many people.

We look forward to our continued engagement with the Chamber and encourage more community and voluntary organisations to become active members.