I first started coming to Funky Teens three years ago when I was 16. Because of my special needs I was being bullied at school and didn’t have many friends, so I came to the Heathfield club to meet new people. I felt nervous the first time I came because I didn’t know anyone, but people started chatting to me and made me feel welcome.

I’ve done lots of different things at Funky Teens, like sports, cooking, arts and crafts. My favourite thing is when we go on outings. When I turned 19 I didn’t want to leave, so I had a chat with the group leaders. Now I am a Funky Teens volunteer! I go to team meetings, help plan activities for the group and help with sports and games.

Funky Teens has given me a lot more confidence and I’ve made a lot of friends. It’s a place where I feel like everyone understands me. If any of you are wondering whether to give it a try I’d say come and have a go and see if you like it.

Mary, 19, from East Sussex

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