Frequently Asked Questions 
Isn't Outreach only for Bible-Bashers? No. Outreach is a Community Youth Club open to any youth on a Monday or Thursday. All the Leaders are Christians, but most of the young people that attend do not go to church on a Sunday. Do you have to be a member to attend? No. Anyone who attends Outreach for the first time will receive a form asking for their basic details. This isnt a membership form, it is for insurance and emergency reasons only. This form must be completed and returned on your next visit. My little brother is 4, can he come as its his Birthday soon? Unfortunately Not Yet. Our age limit on a Thursday is 5+, therefore he must wait until he is 5. On a Monday our age limit is 7+, therefore nobody aged 5 or 6 can attend. What does my Subs money go towards? The minibus is a financial burden, and subs pay for its petrol, insurance, tax, repairs and general running. Also sub money is used to purchase new games, activities and resources for the youngsters. All Tuck shop money is ploughed back into getting more tuck. None of the leaders are paid for working at Outreach, it is completely voluntary. Are you forced to pray? No. Nobody is forced into doing something they are not comfortable with. Each Monday and Thursday there is a 15 minute God-Slot, and a volunteer normally says a prayer at the beginning and at the end. Once a month our God-Slot is a prayer night, and only if you wish too, you can pray. Are you forced to sing hymns? No. Once per month in the God-Slot we have a Music Night and we sing a large variety of modern kids songs. Most of these are action songs and quite fun (for young and old). Some people think we sit around a guitar singing Kum-by-ya, but this not true. We have talented musicians who play the keyboard, drum kit and bass guitar to some very lively Christian songs. Nobody is forced into doing something they are not comfortable with. What types of Facilities do you have? We have a wide range of facilities that can be used anytime throughout the night. These include a Pool Table, Table Tennis, TV and Video, Table Football, Play Stations and Sega Megadrives, a PC, a Pinball Machine, Lego and a large range of board games. What type of Activities do you organise? 
We organise a large range of activities including items such as games, art, craft, music, drama, baking, beetle drives, video nights, exercise nights, treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, football, hockey and so on. We sometimes organise local visits, to places like the Police Station, Lighthouse, Fire Brigade and Coastguard or they may visit us. Those eligible to attend on a Saturday evening go on visits to attractions such as the local cinema, bowling alleys, ice rink and theatre. What type of Games do you play? Many! We vary the different types of games, some physical, some skilful and others mentally challenging. Favourites include Wink-Murder, one-on-one Football, Ball-Tig, Scavenger Hunts, Spud and Mini-Olympics. We are always open to new suggestions. Is there a Tuck Shop? 
Yes, and probably the cheapest in town! A large range of sweets, chocolate bars, crisps, and drinks are on sale for about 20 minutes each night. Sometimes items the youngsters bake are also put on sale in aid of the Minibus Appeal. Do I have to attend the God-Slot? Yes. It has always been one of our rules, that those wanting to attend Outreach, must attend the God-Slot. It takes up only 15 minutes of the two hours (or more) you are there. Do I have to play the organised games or activities? No. There are facilities around the Youth Halls that can normally be used at any time, while other activities are being organised. Can the minibus collect me and take me home? Yes. The minibus collects and returns most of the youngsters, as long as the driver knows where to pick you up. If you dont usually attend and would like picking up please phone 01964 612999. If you make your own way to Outreach, the minibus can drop you off if you wish. Can my parents bring and collect me? Yes. Can my Dad stay with me on my first night? Parents are always welcome to attend (and lend a hand), to find out what Outreach is really like. You will probably find that you recognise most of the youngsters that are there and your nerves will quickly disappear. Why are some people banned? Like all areas of life, when people break the rules, they are punished. When youngsters deliberately break Outreach Rules, they are told not to attend for a certain time limit, for example: 1 month. People are banned for things such as both verbal and physical bullying, repetitive swearing and bad behaviour in the minibus. Can I attend once my ban has finished? Most people are only banned for a few weeks, to make them think about the consequences of bad behaviour. They can return when their limit is over, although we will be expecting a change of behaviour. Very Rarely has anyone been totally banned, although severe crimes such as stealing and assault may lead to this extreme. I hear you sometimes organise Discos? 
Yes. Due to popularity, these are becoming a more regular feature. Normally these are open to Anyone on certain Saturday evenings, with the latest chart hits, excellent sound and light facilities and a great atmosphere. Keep checking this website for the next Disco. Can I attend on a Saturday night? Saturday evenings are normally only for those aged 10+ who attend church on a regular basis. This gives the older youths more freedom in a relaxed atmosphere, and allows us to take a manageable group to local attractions. Does it matter what Church I attend? No. If you are aged 10+ and attend a Christian Church at least once per week, you are eligible to go to Outreach on a Saturday night. We have connections in most of the local churches, so we know who attends what church. What if I have any other questions or need to speak to someone? Please feel free to attend Outreach on any Monday or Thursday to speak to leaders. Alternatively you can phone our Youth Leaders on 01964 612999 or e-mail us on outreach@ask.co.uk. |
