Get a life - don't waste it

These pages are here as a resource for teenagers. The ideas and information were developed with young people from Salford to be a message ‘to teenagers from teenagers'. As well as help with difficult situations and problems there are links helping you find the information that can help make your life great.

Life can be good but you need to get involved with fun stuff and keep away from things that might get you into trouble or mess you up.  

If you are worried about anti-social behaviour the first step is to speak to an adult you can trust.

You can call the police on 0161 872 5050.

If it is an emergency call 999.

Advice on tricky stuff!

Alcohol and drugs - It's best to be informed about drugs, their effects and consequences. The website Talk to Frank is a brilliant resource if you have questions about drugs. Be warned, most drugs are illegal; even sorting mates out is dealing which could land you in jail.

Getting drunk is a big reason people get into stupid situations and why they do stuff they wouldn't do normally. As well as running the risk of acting like an idiot and feeling stupid the next day, being drunk massively increases the chances of fights, violence and risky or unprotected sex. You could also end up in trouble with the police and a criminal record won't help you to get a great life!

If you have had unprotected sex or are worried about pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease contact KISS on 0800 28 29 30 for free confidential advice.

RUThinking has loads of useful facts and advice including the most common things people worry about, the best places to buy condoms, questions about emergency contraception and much, much, more.

Brook Advisory Service is another useful service. The nearest centre is in Eccles at 55 Regent Street.

Vandalism and graffiti - It makes where you live look rubbish and it makes people who live there feel rubbish. Put yourself in other people's shoes and think how they will feel before you destroy their things. If you're caught destroying or defacing property you risk an ASBO or criminal record.

Missing school - It might seem a good idea sometimes, especially if you're having a problem at school, but it won't help you in the end. It's hard to get a good job without any qualifications and it's very hard to get those if you don't go to class.

If you don't want to go to school because you're having a bad time from other people, you're not alone. Unfortunately a lot of young people experience bullying at one time or another. It is a difficult thing to deal with but just missing school will mean that it's you that ends up paying the price. Different things might help in different situations. There 4 me has really useful advice and chat rooms or call someone at Childline on 0800 1111.

If you have any questions or difficulties with school you can always talk to a Connexions advisor.

If you have any feedback or want to tell the council what you think of your classes or school, email education.welfare@salford.gov.uk.

This page was last updated on 19 April 2010