Find an Activity

Finding things to do and places to go isn't just about having a good time. Studies show that young people who enjoy just two hours of structured activities a week do better later on life. So get out, find something you're interested in and get active!

Take Action: Find an Activity

Why Activities Matter

Taking part in activities is fun, and having fun is good for you. But there are lots of other benefits. A group of young people called Young Auditors, who look at the local offer of activities for young people aged 13-19 (up to 25 with learning difficulties and disabilities) identified some of the benefits they had from doing activities:

• Benefits my co-ordination and fitness
• Builds positive feelings and confidence
• Meeting and seeing friends which is really important to me
• Improves my social and leadership skills
• Pride in achievements and new skills
• Made me more enthusiastic regarding a future career
• Brought new career opportunities
• Improved my independence

Studies show that young people who take part in roughly two hours of organised leisure time activity weekly do better as they get older. You can see this in their social groups, their educational attainment and even in things like whether they get in trouble, or what jobs they have.

Instant Expert: Find out all about why activities matter from Activities Oxfordshire.

My experience: Young people can find new clubs by visiting websites on the internet. There are many websites where you can find activities to do, for example: Oxfordshire County Council and Active Oxfordshire. Meaningful activities should be enjoyable, and may be linked to hobbies or interests. Activities such as taking a walk, cooking or painting can help build dignity and self-esteem. In my opinion, I think that you should ask your friends for activities and if you think that it sounds good, try it out and make new friends. This can help all young people to be in a community of fun and it will help them with new skills, new knowledge and new experiences. It will have an impact on their ability. - Murat, 15, Oxford