take me home

Are there things bothering you about living in Northern Ireland, do you feel like you can’t ask other people. Well, some teenagers have got together, and thought of questions that they would like answers to. Luckily for them. They found some other teenagers who were able to give them some information and advice based on experiences they have had. Read on ……………….!!.

Dear.... When I am out and about with my mates we sometimes get called names because of our religion. What can I do ? Worried teenager problem solver
You don’t say where this is happening. If it is in school then go and talk to a teacher or someone you feel you can approach and who will listen to you. If this is happening while you are in the town then our advice is to just walk on and ignore it. Try to walk in a group with your friends and not be on your own. You can always write to your local councillor or District Policing Partnership and ask them to bring the matter up with the PSNI. Get someone to help you draft a letter and send it to your local council offices. By the wise guys !!
problem solver I have heard that you shouldn't wear your football top in certain areas and wonder whether you think it is safe ? Football Supporter
If you are wearing a football top you might get called names by supporters of other teams but thats common, I bet you sometimes do it yourself. Supporting different football teams can feel like being on different sides as all supporters feel very strongly about their team,be it Manchester United, Leeds, Celtic, Rangers, France , Germany, Ireland or England....This not only happens in Northern Ireland. Unfortunately in any country there can be tension, argument, fighting over different choices or cultures. In a perfect world, it would be ok to show off the team we support by wearing their colours anywhere we go. But to avoid confrontation , it is best to wear such tops only on the football ground or in your own community. Remember it is only a game. The wise guys
Can you help ! I would like to get to know other people of my age from different backgrounds, but don't know how. All my friends at school and where I live are all protestants. Just a normal guy problem solver
It's hard to get to know people from the different backgroungs especially when it is not usual for them to mix. You could join a cross community group - check out your local youth club.
problem solver I am being bullied at school. What can I do?
You need to go and talk to your form teacher or someone else in school that you trust. Also you need to tell your mum and dad and ask them to contact the school. Eveyone knows that this goes on and there are arrangements to help and support you through this.
What is there to do on the 12th July in Northern Ireland if you are not taking part in the celebrations for you own personal reasons? problem solver
If you feel uncomfortable being out and about on the 12th July then why not get some of your friends around to your place and if the weather permits have a party outside. If it is raining then get a video/DVD and have a party inside. Remember to clean up afterwards and ask your parents permission before having any parties.
problem solver Where would you go if you want to learn Irish ?
If you don't learn it at school then you might be able to do a course at the local technical college. Why not ring and ask them. The Wiseguys