Youth clubs

Picture of young people

Thursday 15 May 2008

Youth clubs are a good way to meet new people, take part in activities and can be a useful platform for making a difference in your community. n2k speaks to one youth club worker about what centres have to offer young people.

For you

Joining a youth club can widen your horizons and your social circle. James Smith helped start up a youth club in Uckfield, and thinks they can be a place where people from different backgrounds, who would normally not meet, can learn about each other.

“I’ve always found young people receptive and keen to learn more about different cultures. I think we have a responsibility to bring people together and create a solid foundation for the community.”

Activities

Most youth clubs have some sort of fun activities and also the opportunity to pick up new skills. Youth clubs are there for youth, so if there's something you want to do, the best thing to do is suggest it!

“Popular events are a movie club, band performances and practices, DJ performances and classes, gardening, textile work and five a side football."

Your voice

Do you have a great idea that could help your community? Youth clubs are a good platform to speak out about something that matters to you, whether it is a new facility you’d like to see in your area or ways you think the area could be improved for young peope.

“We think the ideas for what to do should come from the young people. Youth clubs have a responsibility to listen. I think young people also need to make sure they use the facilities provided.”

Get out there

Would you rather stay in, surf the net or play the latest computer game than go to a youth club? Why not do both? Most youth clubs are clued up on how big technology is for young people and will provide those facilities.

“We provide gaming facilities and have tournaments so we bring a social interaction side to things”

Someone to talk to

Sometimes it can be difficult to confide in family and friends. Most youth clubs in the UK now have mentors and youth workers that are there to help and provide guidance.

James adds, “We also aim to provide education on sex, drug, bullying etc and will be providing a free counselling service for our users.”

Work experience

Youth clubs also often run courses or have links with organizations that offer work experience.

James agrees, "Education is a massive priority for us because we believe that every young person is gifted in some way and we want to help them realise that and gear them up for their adult life...Our aim is to show people what young people are really capable of.”