Young people with special needs are being encouraged to have a ‘Blast’ at a new youth club run by children's charity Barnardo's.

Launched at its new home on Green Wrythe Lane in Carshalton last month, the Blast Youth Club provides the opportunity for young people to socialise, making friends through variety of activities including, cooking, bingo, puzzles, snooker and football.

The club, launched by Barnardo’s Sutton Short Breaks service, runs on two Saturdays each month from 11am till 3.30pm.

A new All Girls Group is also running out of the club, giving girls with autism the chance to discuss specific issues relating to them and create strong friendships.

Ana Ireson, Sutton Short Breaks Co-ordinator, said: “The Blast Youth Club is a brand new Barnardo’s social group for young people with special needs in Sutton. Even though Blast has only been running for a short space of time, we already have a good number of young people who regularly come to the club.

“However, we would still love for more young people to join as Blast is a wonderful way for young people in Sutton to build friendships, confidence and of course to have lots of fun.

“We have many spaces available for young people to join Blast and also the All Girls Group. We are planning an exciting arrange of activities to take place over the summer, so it’s a brilliant time for young people to get involved.

“We are also in need of volunteers who would be happy to give their time and help out with Blast on one or two Saturdays each month.”

Therese, who is 16 and lives in Sutton, said: “I find the All Girls Group really fun and I get to do lots of activities that I really enjoy. It’s a very good way of meeting other young people, especially girls with special needs, and the staff and volunteers are very welcoming and supportive.”

Barnardo’s Sutton Short Breaks has been working in partnership with Sutton Council for eight years delivering 1:1 support for young people with special needs.

For more information about Blast please call Ana Ireson on 0208 768 5059 or email ana.ireson@barnardos.org.uk