The ARC, which supports adults with learning disabilities and additional needs, marked the milestone with an event designed and led by the people who use the service. From choosing the theme to selecting the entertainment, service users were involved in every aspect of planning the celebration.
Held at the Cairndale Hotel in Dumfries, the evening included a three-course meal followed by dancing, with live music provided by band “Ignition”, chosen by service users. Guests embraced the theme, arriving in formal wear and selecting blue and gold decorations, creating a memorable and inclusive celebration.
The event was well attended, with a strong sense of community and pride throughout the evening as service users, staff and supporters came together to celebrate six decades of the ARC.
Special thanks are extended to the Cairndale Hotel for generously providing the venue free of charge to support the milestone event.
Councillor Andy McFarlane, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Social Work Services Committee, said:
“Celebrating 60 years of Dumfries ARC is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the dedication of staff and the strength of the community it supports. It’s especially encouraging to see that service users were involved in shaping every aspect of the event. That level of involvement reflects the inclusive and person-centred approach that sits at the heart of the ARC’s work, and it’s clear the anniversary was marked in a truly meaningful and memorable way.”
Councillor John Young, Vice-Chair of the Social Work Services Committee, said:
“The anniversary ball was a fitting way to mark this important milestone. It’s great to hear that the evening brought people together to celebrate in such a positive and inclusive atmosphere. The ARC has played an incredibly important role over the past 60 years in supporting people with learning disabilities and additional needs, and this event highlights just how valued that support continues to be. My thanks go to everyone involved in making it such a success.”