A BARRHEAD hub which provides vital services is urging people to join its board of directors and “give back to their community.”

The Auchenback Resource Centre (ARC) is keen to hear from residents who have a passion for the local area, as well as those with knowledge and experience in the likes of HR, finance and health and safety.

People from all walks of life can apply to have a say on how the ARC is run.

Those who join the board, which currently consists of four directors, will be offered training and will meet every second month as they play a major role in responding to the needs of the local community.

Together, they will discuss matters on an operational and strategic level, such as new projects and the ARC's financial situation.

They will also benefit from a boost to their CV.

Sharon Stoddart, a community worker at East Renfrewshire Council, said: “The ARC is looking for people to sit on the board of directors and support its development as it responds to local community needs.”

A number of groups and activities currently run at the ARC, including yoga, a baby clothes swap and arts classes for kids on Thursdays.

Along with a colleague, Sharon asked residents at the ARC’s fun day in August about other groups and activities they would like to see being offered.

A feedback session on this will be held at the ARC on Wednesday, October 26, from 10am until noon, with residents encouraged to go along.

Among the ideas raised were a mother-and-toddler group, social and exercise groups for older residents, a knitting club, groups for younger people, autism support and dementia support.

As well as seeking new members for the board, the ARC is looking for people to get involved in existing groups and help to start new ones.

Brian Connelly, the ARC’s chairperson and manager, said: “We are looking to get volunteers who will help out when we need them.

“We had a fun day before the schools started back where we had hundreds and hundreds through the door but two of the girls who worked that day can only maybe do one day a week, so what I’m looking for is people who can put in a couple of hours a week for us.”

To find out more about getting involved, send an email to Sharon.Stoddart@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk.