Spare time can mean different things to different people. If you’re at school, college, or working full-time it may be evenings or days off to look forward to. However, if you can’t find a job or a college place, it can be long days that stretch into weeks, which can be quite depressing.

Whatever your situation though, spare time = opportunity!

An opportunity to:

• meet new friends
• find new interests
• learn new skills
• help other people
• improve your CV!

Volunteering
Improve your skills, get free training, and put something extra on your CV.

Youth groups
Meet new people at local youth groups.

Sport
Get active – find out what’s available at your local clubs and sports centres.

Leisure
What catches your interest? What's available near you?

Gap Year
A year out from your studies – check here for all the options.

The Philip Lawrence Awards
The awards reward outstanding achievements in good citizenship by young people aged 11 to 20. The national scheme recognises groups that are making a real contribution to their local community and the lives of others; and groups that promote respect and understanding of faiths, culture and communities internationally. The focus is on exemplary activities – examples of young people working together, promoting citizenship and overcoming the difficult situations some young people face. The closing date for nominations is 12th September. To find out more visit http://www.philiplawrenceawards.org.uk.