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“The volunteer training was so interesting, I didn’t realise there was so much to consider with Youth Work. I have more confidence now and I love working in the art room. The kids always love a good chat when we’re doing art, they’ll tell me about their day and sometimes open up about things they’re worried about. “I hope that in the future, I’ll be able to either become a mentor or to specialise in mental health and wellbeing to help kids understand their emotions and promote good mental health.”

“The Way has made quite a big difference to me because, aside from my volunteering, this is the only social chance I get, I'm usually just cooped up in my room at home. So it definitely gives me an opportunity to be social you know, improve my social skills. “ “Sometimes I’ve gone on trips with the Youth Zone, like recently I went to the Birmingham Royal Ballet to watch The Nutcracker with about eight other kids. It gave me a chance to spend time with people who I usually wouldn't talk to and try and spend time with them - build a connection with them.”

“The HAF Holiday Club helps Sam to go to a familiar place where he knows the surroundings. We have tried other holiday clubs, but the structure hasn't been suitable for his needs. Sam is able to play and interact with peers, allowing myself and my husband to continue to work. The fact that he wants to come to the holiday club and is willing to stay there for hours makes everything easier for us as a family. Although our jobs are quite flexible, we can be more productive knowing that our child is in safe hands and doing things he loves."

“The first time I saw the chess board set up, I was inspired to play. Maybe because I have autism, I like maths and chess is like maths, moving a piece to B2 is like maths. The Way Chess Club is the only one I know about and it has a good coach. It is all because of him that I am so good at chess. When I was a beginner, I never thought I would be able to win against him. It is my favourite sport!”

“I like all of the youth workers here at The Way because they’re kind, helpful and respectful to everyone. They help people, for example, they helped me with origami. They help me sometimes with a good chat and I like the activities that they do with us.”

“The first time I came to The Way I was really scared and nervous because there was loads of new people, it was a new place and I struggled to get my words out. But everyone was really nice, which helped a lot. Talking to the staff here has really helped with my mental health and self-esteem. I also feel more comfortable here.” “Climbing has become a really big thing in my life. If I’m not here climbing, I am thinking about how I will climb next time and figure out where I am going wrong.”

“If The Way wasn’t here then my children would not be doing these sports and activities, as it would cost too much. It’s also important to know my kids are safe. I don’t feel comfortable with them playing outside on their own, I worry about gangs and the people they might come in contact with. Without The Way they would be stuck at home, likely on computer games or watching YouTube, which is not good for them as kids need to be socialising and making friends.”

“For me, our “Saturday Squad” family and SEND sessions are a joy to be part of. To see our families spending quality time together in a fun, safe environment makes my job worthwhile. The best part of my job is to see their faces when they try a new activity, make a new friend or overcome a challenge. The hardest part is trying to think of a different theme each week and 7 different activities to go with it! I love the contrast between our calmer SEND sessions and the more energetic pace of our family sessions. “

“It’s an absolute godsend and has become part of our weekly routine. It’s nice and relaxed and I know the children are safe. There’s a good social aspect to keep the children busy too.”

“It’s good to get out of the house and Dylan enjoys all of the activities here. I like to see him having fun and interacting with other children and it usually tires him out.”

“Harry loves the sensory room, it gives me time to relax as I know he is safe and can do what he likes to do. It is the only place we can come weekly and he enjoys it.”

“The best part of working in youth work is being able to provide a safe space to the young people as well as making their time here fun and exciting! Youth work isn't without its challenges, hearing some of the adversities our young people have to face can be hard to comprehend. However, being able to offer a listening ear, a hot meal and a place to be young and free makes it all worth it.”