How about something which is fun AND useful? Volunteering can improve your skills, enable you to get free training and give you something extra on your CV to impress employers: not to mention meeting new people and helping your community. There are a range of opportunities available.

Many towns have a Volunteer Centre; to find your local centre go to Volunteering England or ask at your local Connexions centre. Also, have a look at Do-it.org.uk for local opportunities.

V-inspired runs the Millennium Volunteers (MV) campaign. MV is aimed at young people aged 16-24. As an MV, you volunteer your time to help others by doing something you enjoy. For more information, go to: V-inspired

The Prince’s Trust also offer programmes which can help build confidence, motivation and skills as well as helping young people to get established in work. Your local Connexions centre will have details, or go to Princes Trust or phone 0800 842 842.

Why not have a look at the following links for more ideas?
http://www.worldwidevolunteering.org.uk – for information on volunteering projects worldwide. You must be aged 14 or over.
http://www.bunac.org.uk – information on a range of working holidays and volunteering/teaching placements. These are open to 18 year olds and programmes last from five weeks to two years.
http://www.csv.org.uk - (Community Service Volunteers) information on volunteering opportunities in the UK for those aged 16 and over.
http://www.latitude.org.uk – volunteering experiences overseas for 17-25 year olds.