Meet Andy: Arc Cinema’s new superstar
18 Jun 2025
While Preston residents excitedly awaited the arrival of the city’s new Arc Cinema, its recent opening held special meaning for new staff member Andy. Living with disabilities which he says have majorly affected his life, getting a job at the cinema after more than a year out of work has been lifechanging – and he’s already proving to be a massive box office hit.
Andy, 31, is autistic and has developmental dyspraxia. The conditions affect his joint strength and coordination, cognitive processing and some social cues. Yet Andy’s friendly personality, enthusiasm, and hard working nature shone through during competitive pre-opening group recruitment events for the new cinema.
“I knew I just had to keep trying,” says Andy, who joined the
Work and Health Programme North West, run by Ingeus, in late 2024. It provides tailored employment support to people with health conditions and disabilities, with specialist keyworkers providing both pre- and post-employment support.
“My confidence was really knocked and I was struggling financially but Ingeus helped me with a new CV and interview practise. They encouraged me to open up about my conditions and focus on my strengths. My keyworker kept me updated on vacancies and I immediately knew the new Animate development would be an exciting place to work. I’m so thankful for all the assistance Ingeus gave me.”
Andy now works as a customer service operative, selling and checking tickets, cleaning, and, of course, perfecting the art of the popcorn scoop. He’s doing a super job according to Cinema Manager, Rodica Stoica:
“Andy’s doing really well. He’s great at talking to the customers and gets glowing comments on our social media reviews. He’s a highly valued member of the team.”
Ingeus also provided shoes and clothing for Andy to start work and is there for regular check-ins to ensure he settles in well.
“It’s been brilliant to be here from the beginning and attend the cinema’s VIP opening,” adds Andy, whose friendly nature saw him interviewed by regional radio and feature in local press coverage when filmmaker Nick Park attended the cinema’s pre-opening event.
“I like helping customers and always doing my best; then people will want to come back. I’m proud to be here and enjoy coming to watch the films with my family and friends.
Getting back to work has been a great confidence boost and I’ll just keep doing the best I can.”
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