For young people & families
Start From Home
A calm first step into The Manor community
Some young people want to take part but do not yet feel ready to leave home, enter a new place or meet unfamiliar people face to face.
Start From Home offers a gentle way to begin. Young people can meet a facilitator, try suitable activities and become familiar with The Manor from a place where they feel more comfortable.
There is no pressure to visit the venue until they feel ready.
How it works
A gentle, step-by-step start
Begin with a short introduction
A parent, carer or young person can speak with us first so we understand their interests, worries and support needs.
Join from a familiar place
The young person can take part from home, watch first, keep their camera off, use the chat or take a break when needed.
Decide what comes next
They may continue taking part from home, combine this with visits to The Manor, or plan a first visit when it feels manageable.
There is no fixed timetable for moving from home to the venue.
What's on offer
Things you can try
Start From Home activities may include:
- Dungeons & Dragons and Quest Club
- Chess and strategy games
- Video games & E-Sports
- Game design and digital projects
- Creative challenges
- 3D design
- Budgeting and life skills
- Employability confidence
- Small social and shared-interest groups
Not every activity will be available in every session. We will help families choose an appropriate starting point.
Safe, private and supported
We understand that parents and carers may be concerned about internet safety.
Start From Home is not an open chatroom or public social network. Sessions are planned, facilitator-led and accessed through private joining details.
We will clearly explain:
- •who is leading the session;
- •who else may be attending, if not 1:1;
- •what the activity will involve;
- •how long the session will last;
- •how a young person can ask for help or leave;
- •what information should not be shared.
Young people can keep their camera off unless a specific activity requires otherwise and this has been agreed beforehand. Parents or carers can remain nearby or support the young person during the session.
No one is expected to speak, perform or share personal information before they feel comfortable.
Reassurance
A valid way to take part
Starting from home is not a test that someone must pass before visiting The Manor.
For some people, it may be a temporary first step. For others, it may remain their preferred way to take part. Both are valid.
The aim is to help each person build trust, confidence and familiarity at a pace that feels right for them.
Get in touch
Ready to take the first step?
Tell us a little about the person you are enquiring for and what may help them feel comfortable.