Shape was formed in 2019 by Robert Marshall, Neil Brooks and Vicki Bell with the objective of helping people who had problems in living by delivering short courses and workshops to help people feel calmer and more in control.

What has this to do with the Community Centre?

After successfully developing a range of workshops, Shape wanted to extend the beneficial message but sharing it to a wider audience. The concept of 'Wellbeing Hubs' was created and at that time, the Arbroath Community Centre came up as a possible venue.

Shape developed a proposal that would see the Community Centre run as a Community Interest Company (CIC), which means it is not for profit and run by the people of the town (via a board of trustees) for the benefit of the people of the town. Any profits legally have to go back into running of the centre and not for financial gain by anyone.

We have a vision for the Community Centre to be a place where the wellbeing of all the people of the town is foremost. That is  the Shape philosophy to at the heart of the proposal and hence the name, "Shape Wellbeing Community Hub'. The focus for the hub will be on promotion of wellbeing by the prevention of many of the factors that cause issues in society. Reconnection through physical and mental activities, playing together, meeting together, sharing and having fun.

What is Wellbeing?

Wellbeing means different things to different people.

For some, it’s aboutphysical health—feeling fit, energetic, and pain-free. For others, it’s more about emotional balance, like feeling calm, confident, or connected to others. Some people see wellbeing in terms of purpose and meaning in life, or having financial stability, safe relationships, or spiritual peace.

Ultimately, wellbeing is personal—it’s shaped by our values, experiences, and what matters most to us.

Why?

Great question. At its heart, everyone involved in SHAPE shares the belief that doing something meaningful and positive for the community is one of the most powerful ways to make a difference and give back to society. In the cut and thrust of the commercial world we live in, it is hard to believe that someone wants to do something for good with no alterior motive. The best way to respond to that is to invite people to look at what it means to be a CIC which is legal, open and transparent.