About Us

The Rainbow 13+ Arch Club has been in existence since August, 2007. The idea of setting up the club stemmed from discussions among parents whose children were members of the Junior Arch Club.

As the children were outgrowing the junior club, parents realised that there was nowhere for them to move on to, and a small group of these parents got together and set up the Rainbow 13+ Arch Club.

Our club is a registered charity (Charity No. 20157005 CHY 22040) affiliated to Foroige and the National Federation of Arch Clubs.

Teenagers and adults with an intellectual disability have very few social outlets and opportunities to meet and make friends. They can become socially isolated especially in adolescence as their siblings and other friends move on.

There are very few clubs available that can meet the specific needs of these teenagers and adults. While most youth clubs are open to all teenagers, young adults with an intellectual disability often experience difficulty keeping up to the same level of participation and involvement as their non-disabled peers. Making and sustaining friendships can be difficult and painful, and can at times affect how a young person perceives and values themselves.

Teenagers and adults with learning disabilities are no different – they also need their own friends and leisure activities. However, people with learning disabilities often experience added difficulties in making and keeping friends.

The club currently has approximately 70 members.

The club is also a source of information and support to parents/carers where they can meet and share experiences.