What kind of things do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I try to go out and see my friends. Maybe we go to the movies, bowing or perhaps sometimes out for a meal. We sometimes go to each other’s houses too, where we can chat, play games and have fun.
I also sometimes stay home listening to music, or watching movies or TV.
Do you plan what you’re doing before you head out?
Yes, we plan what to do before we go out. We decide together if we want to go to the cinema and which film we want to see. Or if it’s bowling and a meal afterwards, we choose which restaurant we’d like to go too – maybe it’s Frankie & Bennies, Pizza Express or Nando’s.
What do you love about going for a meal ?
It’s wonderful to try new foods and experience something different, and it’s always good connecting with my friends. It also gives me the independence of going somewhere on my own too.
What kind of movies do you and your friends choose to watch?
Movies that I enjoy going to see are Disney movies, action movies, and fantasy movies too. I like it at the movies when I can watch the trailers – I get excited if I see something I really want to watch!
Do your friends need a carer/parent?
Usually they don’t. It gives my friends the ability to go out by themselves and gives us all skills in helping us with adulthood life. But sometimes a carer and parent will come with us if it’s important. They might also pick us up or drop is off in their car.
Have you been part of youth groups in the past?
Years ago, I went to a youth group called Stride Theatre. It was a great group where you could see friends, chat to them and do fun activities out of the house. I enjoyed doing drama, singing and dancing. And there was another youth club where I did activities like art & crafts, playing games, dancing and cooking. I gained a lot of confidence and felt empowered. I met many other young people who went there, and I met friends for life.
Why do you like going out in the community?
Going out gives me the freedom I need to have some independence, be a young adult, and be able to see friends and feel happy.
“It’s wonderful to try new foods and experience something different, and it’s always good connecting with my friends”
Troy
What is the hardest thing young people face going out with friends?
It’s mainly being able to go out without needing a parent or carer to take them to the place. So that often means using public transport like a bus and gaining the confidence to travel alone. Also, dealing with money can sometimes be hard when you’re in a restaurant or paying for bowling or the cinema.
What’s your advice?
It’s always hard at the beginning, but the more you do it, the more confidence you’ll gain. If you’re happier with a parent transporting you, then definitely do that. You can still gain independence just by being out with friends and doing small things on your own.
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