East Sussex County Council realised this when it set up Funky Teens two years ago. The council previously had run youth groups for young people with disabilities but these were respite services, designed to help carers rather than to stimulate young people. Jan Murphy, service manager for East Sussex youth development, says Funky Teens signified a new approach: "We wanted to give the young people an opportunity to take part in the youth service curriculum. The clubs really broaden their horizons."
Three disability youth clubs now operate on alternate Saturdays and a fourth is due to start in September. Designed for young people aged 13 to 19, the clubs take place in council-owned youth centres and offer the same activities as any other local youth club. The only difference is the higher staff ratio and closer links with parents.
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