Getting Out and About

Going out to different places and meeting people is something many of us like to do. Living in a beautiful county like Devon can have its challenges when it comes to travel. Rural areas often have limited public transport so you may be reliant on lifts or have to walk long distances. However, travelling independently is a really important skill for life. So if you do have public transport nearby you might want to use it. If you need some help to start travelling independently here are some links that may be useful when thinking about travel and transport.

• Independent Travel Training is a free scheme which has been set up by Devon County Council working with the Transport Co-ordination Service. It can help you develop skills and confidence to travel safely and independently. You’ll work with a travel trainer, who will help and support you get the skills you need. More information and contact details. 
• Devon Access Wallet Scheme might be something you’d find helpful if you’re travelling independently on buses and trains. It may help if you find talking to staff on the bus or train difficult. The wallet is used as a way to show staff where you’d like to go and the type of ticket you need. Find out more about it and how to get a wallet here. 

Lots of people enjoy sport. It’s not just the physical activity that’s fun, being part of a team or playing with another person is a great way to meet people and make friends. 

Many of us start playing sports at school. This is often how you find out if we enjoy it and want to do more. But school isn’t the only place you can have a go at something sport related. There are lots of sports clubs in the community. People usually join clubs in their local area so they can travel there more easily. 

Here are some general links to sporting and outdoor activities that can be found in and around Devon.

• Space is the Devon based youth service. They arrange lots of activities around Devon, some of them are sports based or outdoors. Check out the Space Youth Services website to find a centre near you and what they offer. 
• There are a number of inclusive football clubs in Devon that may be of interest if football’s your thing. You can find out where they are and what they offer by checking out this website Get involved with disability football in England (devonfa.com)
• If cricket is your thing, you can find information about inclusive opportunities in Devon through Devon Cricket. 
• Have you heard of the Duke of Edinburgh Award? Many schools offer this opportunity but did you know that Space, the Devon Youth Service offers it too? Find out how they run the scheme, and what’s involved. 

If you’re interested in being creative you might find some interesting things to do and make with other people in this section. The Devon youth service SPACE hosts in person and online activities in Music and Art. Check out what they offer. 

Devon Music Education Hubs — Space Youth Services

If music is your thing check out the great music opportunities organised by Space, the Devon Youth Service. They have centres all around the county. Check out your nearest one here. From making music, to music production there may be something right for you. Check out what they offer here. 

If it’s being creative through making things, painting or other art forms, most of the Space youth centres have opportunities to get creative with Art materials. 

There has been a big increase in online activities and opportunities since the pandemic. Living in such a large and rural county like Devon can sometimes make it harder to get to face-to-face activities and groups. Limited transport and travelling time can make it a challenge. However, some groups and activities are using online options to make things easier for some young people. 

• Check out these videos, tutorials and resources on all things music and technology from the people at Space. Music & Technology – Creative Hub — Space Youth Services | Online Youth Work | Digital Youth Work
• This online youth club is a safe way to connect with other young people and youth workers. X-Plore LGBTQ Youth Groups in Devon (lgbtqyouthdevon.org.uk)

Devon is a big county with lots to see and do but finding things that are right for you and in your area can sometimes be difficult. Devon Connect  is a website with links to groups and activities in Devon. You can search for what you want using your area or what you’re interested in. 

If you like going to the cinema but feel it’s a bit overwhelming because of the crowds, perhaps the noise level or because you need to take a break during the film. You could see if there’s a cinema near you that offers Autism Friendly Screenings.