There are many things to do throughout England and Wales that are free of charge and open to all.

Leisure centres
You can have fun and get fit at your local sport or leisure centre. Sports on offer can range from squash to tennis to keep fit classes to swimming. You can find your nearest centre from your local council or from the Sport England website; www.sportengland.com.
Facilities of this kind are not necessarily free, but most local authorities offer reduced rates for certain people, such as students and those on welfare benefits.

Libraries
The best place to get free information is your local library. They will also have copies of magazines and sometimes guide books of the area.

Browsing the internet
Some libraries provide free access to websites with library cards which will entitle you to use the internet.

Youth clubs
Your local authority may run youth clubs where you can catch up with friends and meet others. You can also find out whether your local authority runs classes which you may be interested in such as drama groups, art classes etc.
www.direct.gov.uk which will take you to your local authority website where you can find out more.

Arts
Theatretrain
www.theatretrain.co.uk – trains young people in the arts of acting, singing and dancing.

Young People Arts Award
www.artsaward.org.uk – recognising the development of young artists and young art leaders.

The Arts Council is the national development agency for the arts. There are regional offices throughout England and Wales that can offer contact details of organisations and provide funding opportunities.
www.artscouncil.org.uk

Personal challenges
www.princes-trust.org.uk - Helps young people through training, skill building, business loans, grants, personal development and study support outside school.

www.raleigh.org.uk – supports young people to take charge of their lives. Provides an opportunity to work on projects in the UK and abroad.

www.theaward.org – the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is open to young people aged 14 to 25. Providing an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding programme of personal development.

www.outwardbound-uk.org – outdoor adventures and activities for young people.

Volunteering
See section on volunteering

What’s on in the UK
www.whats-on-guide.co.uk – The complete entertainment guide for the UK.

Time Out in London
www.timeout.com – provides details of arts, entertainment and leisure activities and events.