I’ve been coming to the youth club for a few years now with my younger sibling. I’ve just got back from my first holiday abroad – it was amazing! I love my dog and have loads of photos of him. I enjoy watching TV and just chilling out.

I moved to this area when I was 11. I’d never been here before, and I joined the youth club to help me meet new people. I struggled a lot with anxiety when I first arrived and felt really nervous not knowing anyone. With moving house and all the change, it was quite scary.

My anxiety was really bad at the start, and I had a tough time managing my emotions. My first session was a holiday club, and then we tried a quieter group because it felt less overwhelming. The staff supported me by taking time to get to know me, chatting with me, and helping when I needed it. Being able to talk to staff has really helped me cope with things.

I love being at the youth club – especially being able to talk to staff and get involved in activities. I get to try things I don’t experience at home or school, and there’s always something going on. My favourite activities are baking, arts, chatting with staff, and last year I even got to take part in a community event decorating a public Christmas tree. The staff let me have the freedom to be myself, and that’s why I feel so comfortable here. They listen – and that means a lot.

After we moved house again last year, we were closer to the youth club so I started trying out a different session with friends. I enjoy both sessions for different reasons – one is quieter with more activities, and the other is a bit busier and gives me time to hang out with my mates.

“The youth club has boosted my confidence so much. Staff have always been there when I needed to talk. One of the quieter sessions helped me build the confidence to join the busier one.”

I still struggle with anger at school, but I don’t feel that way here. Everything’s more relaxed and I feel like I can be myself. Even if I did get upset, staff would sort it out straight away and help. If anything’s going on at home or school, I can open up to staff the minute I walk through the door. I honestly find it easier to talk to staff here than anywhere else. Now I feel happy, calm and relaxed – especially here.