Youth
Young people need a place to belong, a chance to ask, and a space to grow.
Youth is a place for 11-17s to hang out, eat good food, play games, and ask honest questions about life and faith.
We meet every second Saturday at Chorlton Methodist Church, from 7.00-8.30pm.
In each session we explore a real-life theme, like anxiety, friendship, identity or hope, see what the Bible has to say about it, discuss it together, and there’s always a practical help that connects with real lives.
A typical Youth session
Dinner and games on arrival
Big chat: we introduce the main theme and some ideas to think about
Group discussion: young people get to think through and share their thoughts
Practical activity: learn techniques to help you right now
Hang out: video and board games, hanging out
All Youth leaders are DBS checked and receive annual training in safeguarding (you can read our safeguarding policy here).
Examples of topics we cover (the young people decide what they want to learn about):
Body, mind, spirit — what does healthy look like? (health)
What makes a real friend? (friendships)
What do you do when things feel hopeless? (hope)
What does it mean to be strong? (strength)
Who really knows the real you? (being known)
What am I actually here for? (purpose)
How do I bounce back? (resilience)
Who’s really in control? (stress)
New? Start here.
I don't know anyone. Will I be the only new person?
You won't be the only one who's nervous, and you don't need to arrive with friends. Our leaders will be watching out for new faces, and the evening is built so you can ease in gently, starting with food.
I've never been to church. Will I feel out of place?
No. You don't need any church background, and you don't need to believe anything in particular to come. Everyone is welcome, whatever they believe or don't believe, and no question is too basic or too big.
What actually happens?
Each session is about 90 minutes in two halves. The first 45 minutes is a relaxed conversation about a real-life theme, like anxiety, friendship, identity or hope. We look at what the Bible says about it, then talk it over together. The second 45 minutes is youth club: games, food, music, or just hanging out.
Will I have to speak, pray, or read out loud?
No. There's no pressure to speak, and nobody will be put on the spot. Listen as much as you like.
Is it a lecture?
Definitely not. Our teaching time (the big chat) is short, and the discussion does the real work. We sit in a circle or on sofas, not in rows, so it feels more like a living room than a classroom.
What if I'm not sure what I believe?
That's a good place to start! This is a space for honest questions, and you're free to disagree, doubt and think things through at your own pace.
Is there food?
Oh most definitely. There's food when you arrive, and we usually have things like pizza, a toast bar and a hot drinks station later on.
Who runs it, and is it safe?
Every leader goes through safeguarding training and an enhanced DBS check, and there are always at least two checked leaders present. We follow a full safeguarding policy, and there's a named safeguarding lead you or your parents can talk to at any time. More info on safeguarding here.
What ages is it for?
11 to 17. Everyone's welcome, and the group is deliberately mixed so you can get to know people beyond your usual friends.
What do I need to bring?
Just yourself!
Do my parents need to sign anything?
Yes, we ask parents or guardians to fill in a short consent form covering things like emergency contacts, medical or dietary needs, and photo permissions. [Link the form.]
Where and when is it?
Every second Saturday at Chorlton Methodist Church. You’ll see the signs and a friendly people out front.
Can I just come once and see what it's like?
Of course. Come along once, no strings attached, and decide for yourself. If you don’t like it, you don’t need to come back.
Who do I contact if I have questions first?
You're welcome to message us before your first visit, and your parents can too. Contact us here.
Come and see what Youth is all about. We'd love to meet you!