A place where everyone belongs

Open Circle Community was created from a simple belief: nobody should have to struggle alone.

Across our communities, too many people are living with isolation, poor mental health, addiction, financial hardship or the challenges that come with supporting someone they love. Too often, people don't know where to turn, or the support available doesn't feel welcoming, accessible or right for them.

Open Circle exists to change that.

We create safe, peer-led spaces where people can connect, build relationships and find hope through community. Whether it's sharing a meal, joining a walk, taking part in a creative activity or simply spending time with others who understand, we believe meaningful connection has the power to change lives.

Our approach is rooted in compassion, lived experience and the belief that everyone deserves to feel seen, valued and supported. We don't expect people to have all the answers before they walk through the door, and we don't believe support has to begin in a clinical setting. Sometimes, the first step is simply finding somewhere you feel welcome.

Every project we run is designed to strengthen individuals, families and the wider community. From wellbeing programmes and peer support to outdoor activities and creative groups, our aim is always the same: to create opportunities for people to reconnect with themselves, with others and with the place they call home.

As we grow, our vision is to create a permanent community hub—a place where people can access affordable food, wellbeing activities, support, fitness, volunteering opportunities and safe, sober social spaces under one roof. A place where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, knows they belong.

At Open Circle Community, we're not just building programmes.

We're building stronger communities, one connection at a time.

Meet the Team

Open Circle Community was created by people who understand the importance of connection. Our team combines lived experience with professional knowledge, but above all, we're passionate about creating spaces where people feel safe, supported and that they truly belong.

Founder & Director

Claire Quigley

Claire is a founding Director of Open Circle Community CIC and the person who quietly keeps the wheels turning.

She leads on compliance, governance and community delivery, making sure every project we run is safe, ethical and grounded in real‑world understanding.

From safeguarding to risk management to creating welcoming community spaces, Claire is the steady anchor behind the scenes.

Her professional background spans the Criminal Justice System, where she worked as both a prison officer and a probation services officer — roles that taught her how to read people, hold boundaries and stay calm in absolute chaos. More recently, she spent three years as a housing officer and manager in recovery homes, supporting people through some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

Alongside her professional experience, Claire brings powerful lived experience. After navigating her own challenges with alcohol and substance harm, she has been in recovery for over three and a half years. This journey has shaped her into an empathetic, understanding and deeply human practitioner who believes in second chances, community connection and the strength people find when they’re truly seen.

Co-Founder & Director

James Arnold

James is a co‑founder of Open Circle Community CIC and living proof that recovery can transform not just a life, but an entire community. With three years in recovery from alcohol, he has gone from dependent to dependable — a steady, compassionate presence who shows up for people the way he once needed others to show up for him.

Before rebuilding his life, James experienced homelessness and spent time living in hostels. Those years shaped his understanding of vulnerability, survival and the power of being given a second chance. Today, he uses that lived experience as fuel for change. He volunteers to support people who are homeless, offering practical help, encouragement and dignity to those still fighting their way through the hardest days. James also volunteers with local drug and alcohol services, bringing honesty, hope and real‑world insight to people starting their own recovery journeys.

His commitment to giving back has become a cornerstone of the work he now does with Open Circle Community CIC, where he helps create safe spaces, community connection and lasting impact across St Helens. Grounded, humble and quietly powerful, James is driven by one belief: if he can rebuild his life, others can too — and he’ll be right there beside them as they do.

Director

Anthony Prescott

Anthony brings over two and a half years of sobriety, lived experience and a strong commitment to supporting others into his role at Open Circle Community CIC. His recovery journey has shaped him into a steady, compassionate presence who leads by example. Throughout his time in sobriety, Anthony has overseen and represented the group at peer‑support meetings, chaired sessions, and supported many people on their own recovery journeys. He is known for being approachable, honest and willing to help wherever he can.

Alongside his community work, Anthony has professional experience in social care and health settings, which has strengthened his understanding of the challenges people face and the support they need to rebuild their lives. Sobriety has allowed Anthony to rebuild his own life, too. He has secured his own home, created stability, and is now preparing to welcome a new baby — something he once thought would never be possible.

Anthony cares deeply about people and shows it through action. He has even taken part in charity boxing events, raising funds for mental health organisations and demonstrating how recovery can fuel purpose, strength and community impact. Grounded, reliable and driven by lived experience, Anthony is committed to helping others find the same hope and stability he has found.

Director

Heather Dale

Heather is a Director of Open Circle Community CIC, leading communications, marketing and partnerships to help grow the organisation and share its story with the people who need it most.

A proud mum of two young children and originally from Thatto Heath, St Helens, Heather is passionate about giving something back to the community she grew up in. After building a career in journalism and communications in London and Hong Kong, before founding her own communications consultancy, she's come full circle, using everything she's learned to help communities find their voice, not just businesses.

Heather has been in recovery for almost ten years and openly says she owes her life to it. Recovery gave her so much more than sobriety; it gave her purpose, her family, friendships she never thought possible and a completely different future. That experience shapes everything she does.

Heather believes the opposite of addiction isn't sobriety, it's connection. That's why she's proud to be part of Open Circle Community, helping to build a future where nobody feels forgotten, everyone feels they belong, and communities across St Helens and beyond grow stronger together.

Mission

Support

At Open Circle Community, we prioritise connection among members, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Our community-driven approach facilitates meaningful interactions and promotes a sense of belonging for all individuals seeking support.

Engagement

We offer various community activities and workshops designed to empower individuals to connect, learn, and grow together. By fostering participation and collaboration, we help members build their skills and enhance their community involvement.

Community Growth

Open Circle Community believes in the transformative power of collective growth. By nurturing connections and providing access to resources, we aim to uplift our community, encouraging everyone to contribute to a brighter future together. Join us in creating a supportive and thriving environment for all.