Friends, relationships and the community

Having friends to do things with is a great way to staying fit, having fun, trying something new and feeling good about yourself.

There is lots to do and try for the first time in Leicester with friends or family. These are some things to think about when taking part in your social life.

You may want to live with people you already know, for example someone you have been to college with.  This would need to be discussed with the Transitions Team and Adult Social Care as it may require either a joint housing application or making sure there are places available for you both in a shared house.  If you move into a shared house with people you do not know, you will be introduced slowly to help you settle in.

There is a wide range of activities and clubs available for you to become involved with. A range of areas of interest is detailed below with more services available by searching MyChoice.

• Cinemas
• Libraries
• Museum and galleries
• Sports and leisure centres
• Short breaks
• Youth services

Staying Safe online

Many of us stay in touch with friends using social media at home so it’s very important to know how to stay safe when you’re using your computer. The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) has online safety advice for parents and carers.  Internet Matters.org also has lots of great advice for children and young people.

Leicester Children’s Safeguarding Board

Leicester Children’s Safeguarding Board has put together essential information for families to prevent and maintain their young person’s safety with regard to all types of abuse.  There is also a section for young people to know how to take control of their own safety.  If you are concerned about a children you can report a concern.

PANTS

Explaining the boundaries in relationships, particularly around touching and personal contact is especially sensitive. The NSPCC’s PANTS website pages and video is a helpful and fun resource for families to learn more about this area.

Preventing Abuse

Anyone can find themselves in a situation they are not comfortable with. The important thing is to tell someone. The link here is to help you know how to prevent the situation happening in the first place. The NSPCC has advice for parents and carers.