The Out and About initiative is a unique youth programme which empowers disabled young people to take part in a wide range of mainstream youth activities.

This innovative service covers the age range from 6 to 18 years and activities include drama, drop-in sessions, sports, arts & crafts and much more.

Our committed and trained Support Workers provide the encouragement and assistance that each person needs and we can arrange transport to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in youth activities in their own community.

Case Study - Aaron Wilkie

Born with cerebral palsy, 17 year old Aaron Wilkie says he always knew he'd end up in a wheelchair: "It was at the back of my mind from a very young age although I was always occupied playing football, hockey or swimming." Aaron was in a wheelchair by the time he was 12. He explains, "It had a huge impact on my life. I lost confidence and stopped going out. I was afraid of having to cope with other people's reactions."

Thanks to the Out & About Initiative he didn't remain a hermit. With support, Aaron joined a youth club: "I began to feel more confident and made lots of new friends. Without the help I was given I would be imprisoned in my own house, too frightened to go out and reliant on a social worker."

Today Aaron is studying sociology at college and sits on the Board of the Disability Community.

Tuesday Teens

This integrated youth club is based in The Disability Community's purpose-built Centre in Possilpark. Tuesday Teen members are aged 11 – 18 years and there is an excellent mix of disabled and non-disabled young people.

Activities include healthy eating & cookery sessions, arts & crafts, IT and games plus other fun stuff. Throughout the year there are also regular trips and activity programmes.

• Partners