What The Friday Youth Podcast

Episode 13: The Christmas Episode

For our final episode of the year our hosts have decided to do it live and unscripted!
Our hosts answer all the main Christmas questions that young people are asking including: How do you buy Christmas presents on a budget? What do you have for your Christmas dessert? And Tinsel – yes or no?
Series 2 will drop in 2025 and if you’d like to be involved (either with content or to involve your cohort of young people) please drop us a message.
Until then, we hope you have a great holiday and a happy new year.
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 12: Creative Careers

In this week’s episode we look at creative careers and firstly speak to five local professionals who are earning a living in the creative sector and then Daniel speaks to Andy about how an aspiring creative can get into the sector.
We have used snippets from our Exploring Careers podcast which feature longer interviews. The long-form interviews also feature contributions from careers experts Scott and Amy from C+K, who provide great insight into how you can get into the sector yourself. The full interviews can be found on our sister podcast – The Youth Social Podcast: 
Mel talks about her career in film and TV as a hair, make up and prosthetics expert. 
S: http://tiny.cc/ihl0001
A: http://tiny.cc/lhl0001
Richard (joined by Sophie from HCMF) talks about his career as a professional musician.
S: http://tiny.cc/vhl0001
A: http://tiny.cc/zhl0001
Rebecca from the LBT talks about careers in theatre
S: http://tiny.cc/cjl0001
A: http://tiny.cc/1il0001
Julia from Upcycle fashion discusses careers in textiles
S: http://tiny.cc/5il0001
A: http://tiny.cc/7il0001
And finally, Pete shares his experiences as a freelance illustrator.
S: http://tiny.cc/dil0001
A: http://tiny.cc/hil0001
 
Daniel’s interview with Andy was funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 
The Community Grants project is being delivered by Groundwork UK and is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). In West Yorkshire the West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads the implementation of the Fund as part of the Mayor’s ambition to make West Yorkshire the best place to work, learn and live.
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 11: 'Choose Well' - Looking after your health this winter

In this week’s episode we look at how you can ‘choose well’ and what you can do to look after your physical and mental health.
We are joined by Amanda who is a pharmacy manager and India who is a psychological wellbeing practitioner for NHS Talking Therapies in Calderdale.
 
What can you do to choose well this winter?
 
Consider using a pharmacy rather than visiting A&E or your GP.
 
Items that you should have in your home first aid kit:  https://togetherwe-can.com/stay-well/
Information about pharmacies and how they can help: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/how-pharmacies-can-help/
Link to NHS Service Finder to find a pharmacy that offers the contraceptive pill without a prescription: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/find-a-pharmacy-offering-contraceptive-pill-without-prescription/
Information about antibiotic resistance: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antibiotics/antibiotic-antimicrobial-resistance/
 
Look after your mental health
 
Where to get urgent help for mental health https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/where-to-get-urgent-help-for-mental-health/
Get help from 111 online or call 111 and select the mental health option.
Access the Samaritans - Call 116123
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
Text "SHOUT" to 85258 to contact the Shout Crisis Text Line, or text "YM" if you're under 19
If you're under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill.
 
Remember: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:
it is a life threatening emergency
someone's life is at risk – for example, they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose
you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe
A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone's time.
 
Special thanks to:
Calderdale Cares Partnership https://www.calderdalecares.co.uk/,
VAC https://www.cvac.org.uk/ 
NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board https://www.westyorkshire.icb.nhs.uk/
For their help and support in making this episode. 
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 10: HPV Immunisation & Volunteering

In this week’s episode we look at the benefits of having the HPV immunisation and speak to a young adult who has turned his life around through volunteering.
 
HPV vaccination
NHS information on HPV vaccine:
https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/hpv-vaccine/
 
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery:
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
 
We’d like to thank Locala https://www.locala.org.uk for their support with this podcast.
 
Volunteering
If you would like further information on volunteering type “Volunteering opportunities near me” into Google.
 
Opportunities in Calderdale can be found here: https://new.calderdale.gov.uk/jobs/volunteering/volunteering-opportunities
 
Opportunities in Kirklees can be found here:
https://tslkirklees.org.uk/volunteering-roles/
 
Thank you to Project Colt for their help in producing this podcast. https://www.projectcolt.org.uk
 
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 
 
The Community Grants project is being delivered by Groundwork UK and is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). In West Yorkshire the West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads the implementation of the Fund as part of the Mayor’s ambition to make West Yorkshire the best place to work, learn and live.
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 
 

Episode 9: Into Work Special pt2

In our second Into Work Special we look at whether the recruitment process is weighted against young people from minority groups and how to set up a business and be self employed.
Chloe spoke to Shauna who is Head of People Services from Kirklees Council to get a first-hand account of really happens when you apply for a job  
In our second interview Sienna talks to Jane who mentors people who are setting up their own business – to find out more about becoming self employed.
 
Here’s a list of helpful resources for young people looking to start a business or become self-employed in the UK:
The King’s Trust (formerly the Prince’s Trust)Offers support for 18 to 30-year-olds with business ideas, including training, mentoring, and help with writing business plans. Financial support is available in the form of low-interest loans.The King's Trust Website​  
AD:VENTURE provides ambitious new businesses in West Yorkshire with a tailored programme of support to help to them grow.
https://www.ad-venture.org.uk
Barclays LifeSkillsAimed at 16 to 25-year-olds, this platform provides resources to understand self-employment, including legal and tax considerations, and practical tips to get started.Barclays LifeSkills​
MoneyHelperGuides individuals on the essentials of starting a business, from registering with HMRC to managing finances and understanding insurance.MoneyHelper Website​
British Library Business & IP CentreFree access to market research reports, company data, intellectual property advice, and workshops at various locations in the UK.Business & IP Centre
Youth Business International (YBI)Offers mentoring, financial support, and technical training through a global network of partners, including UK-specific initiatives like Virgin StartUp and UnLtd for social entrepreneurs.Youth Business International​
Startups.co.ukA comprehensive guide on starting a business, covering business planning, funding, mentoring, and accelerator programs.Startups UK​
Gov.uk Business SupportA central hub for business support, including funding options, grants, and guidance tailored to new entrepreneurs.GOV.UK Business Support​
 
These resources provide advice, financial support, and practical tools to help you navigate the early stages of entrepreneurship.
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 
The Community Grants project is being delivered by Groundwork UK and is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). In West Yorkshire the West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads the implementation of the Fund as part of the Mayor’s ambition to make West Yorkshire the best place to work, learn and live.
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod (@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 8: Into Work Special pt1

In our first Into Work Special we look at what you can do to add work experience to your CV and why it’s beneficial to take advantage of activities at your college or university.
Liam interviews Kelly from C+K Careers to find out what skills employers are looking for and hear her top tips for getting work experience.
In our second interview Alex interviews Graham from Youth Social to find out what opportunities are offered at college or university and how you can take advantage of them.
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod (@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 
The Community Grants project is being delivered by Groundwork UK and is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). In West Yorkshire the West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads the implementation of the Fund as part of the Mayor’s ambition to make West Yorkshire the best place to work, learn and live.

Episode 7: LGBTQ+ Takeover

For this week’s episode we are exploring the lived-experience of four LGBTQ+ teens and young adults.
They discuss four subjects:
Discovering you are gay
Coming out
Managing your mental health
How LGBTQ+ youth centres and safe spaces can help
So, whether you are figuring out your own sexuality or you would like to better understand the challenges that others face – we hope you enjoy this episode.  
 
If you would like to connect with The Brunswick Centre click here to find a list of useful contact numbers.
https://www.thebrunswickcentre.org.uk/services/youth-services
Special thanks to C+K and Brunswick Centre for their support in producing this podcast.
 
Here are some other organisations that offer support for young people:
Support & Community
The Trevor Projecthttps://www.thetrevorproject.orgProvides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth. Their TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat services are available 24/7.
LGBT Foundation (UK)https://lgbt.foundationOffers a range of services, including helplines, mental health support, and youth-focused resources for LGBTQ+ people in the UK.
It Gets Better Projecthttps://itgetsbetter.orgThis project shares uplifting stories of LGBTQ+ people, providing inspiration and support through personal experiences.
GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network)https://www.glsen.orgWorks to create safe and affirming schools for LGBTQ+ youth, with a focus on bullying prevention, teacher support, and educational resources.
Mental Health Resources
MindOut (UK)https://www.mindout.org.ukAn LGBTQ+ mental health service providing information, support, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals, including an online chat service.
Q Chat Spacehttps://www.qchatspace.orgAn online community where LGBTQ+ teens can connect with each other and trained facilitators in a safe and confidential environment.
Switchboard (UK)https://switchboard.lgbtOffers a confidential helpline, chat, and email service providing support for LGBTQ+ issues, available to all ages but particularly helpful for youth.
Sexual Health & Education
Scarleteenhttps://www.scarleteen.comA youth-driven site offering inclusive sex education and advice, with articles, forums, and a safe place to ask questions about sexuality, relationships, and health.
LGBTQ+ Guide from Planned Parenthoodhttps://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/sexual-orientation-genderPlanned Parenthood provides resources on sexual orientation, gender identity, coming out, and navigating relationships as an LGBTQ+ person.
AVERThttps://www.avert.orgAVERT provides a range of information on LGBTQ+ health and sexual wellbeing, including advice on coming out, safe sex, and HIV awareness.
Educational and Advocacy Organisations
Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - Youth & Schoolshttps://www.hrc.org/resources/youth-schoolsOffers resources for LGBTQ+ youth and allies, focusing on LGBTQ+ rights, school policies, and advocacy.
Stonewall (UK)https://www.stonewall.org.ukOne of the largest LGBTQ+ rights organizations in the UK, Stonewall provides resources on a wide range of LGBTQ+ topics, including youth programs and school support.
OutRight Action Internationalhttps://outrightinternational.orgFocuses on human rights for LGBTQ+ individuals globally, including advocacy resources and reports on issues facing LGBTQ+ youth worldwide.
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 6: Moving out of home and Saving money

At some point we all need to find our own place to live – whether that is by choice or it is forced upon us.
But how do you go from living with family to having your own home?
To find out more we spoke to Natasha from the Kirklees Citizens Advice & Law Centre to discuss available options and get some top tips for moving out.
Whether you’re going to university, want to move in with mates or at risk of being homeless – this is an essential listen.
 
A key part of having your own place is managing your money, and we have also invited Katie from Kirklees Citizens Advice & Law Centre give us all some tips on saving and managing our money.
Here are some useful links from the episode:
Kirklees Citizens Advice & Law Centre - Advice in Kirklees (local Kirklees office and how you can get advice - phone, web enquiry, drop in session)
Citizens Advice (public site useful to navigate a number of issues)
Home - Shelter England
Home - Fusion Housing
Housing and homelessness | Kirklees Council
Council housing: Apply for a council home - GOV.UK
What is social housing? - Shelter England
Work out your budget - Citizens Advice
 
 🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 5: Real life stories of care-experienced teens and young adults

This week we are shining a light on teens and young adults who have grown up in the care system. There are approximately 82,000 young people in the care system and each one of them has a unique story and has faced challenges that many can only imagine. 
In this episode Josh P, Josh H, Sophie, Matt, Odette and Louis give us a taste of what life is life in care. If you would like to hear longer versions of these interviews please use the links below or check out our sister podcast The Youth Social Podcast. 
Thank you to National Lottery Awards for All for funding this project and making it possible for young people in care to share their experienced.
https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/
 
Josh P: 
Apple: http://tiny.cc/8rzrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/w6zrzz
 
Sophie:
Apple: http://tiny.cc/x6zrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/z6zrzz
 
Matt: 
Apple: http://tiny.cc/27zrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/37zrzz
 
Odette: 
Apple: http://tiny.cc/57zrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/67zrzz
 
Josh H: 
Apple: http://tiny.cc/77zrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/d7zrzz
 
Louis: 
Apple: http://tiny.cc/h7zrzz
Spotify: http://tiny.cc/j7zrzz
 
If you are affected by any of the issues discussed in this podcast please talk to your PA or support worker. If you would like independent advice, here’s a list of relevant support services with weblinks that offer additional support to looked-after children and care-experienced teens and young adults:
 
The Care Leavers’ Association
A user-led charity that supports care leavers of all ages and promotes the rights of care-experienced individuals.
https://www.careleavers.com
 
The Children’s Society
The Children's Society provides support for vulnerable young people, including those who are looked after or have left care.
https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk
 
Coram Voice
Coram Voice offers advocacy, advice, and support to children and young people in care or who have recently left care.
https://coramvoice.org.uk
 
National Care Advisory Service (NCAS)
NCAS is part of Catch22, offering advice and guidance for young people transitioning from care to independent living.
https://www.catch-22.org.uk/what-we-do/childrens-social-care/care-leavers/
 
Barnardo’s Care Leaver Services
Barnardo's provides services for care leavers to help them transition into independent living, education, or employment.
https://www.barnardos.org.uk/get-support/support-for-young-people/leaving-care
 
Just for Kids Law
This organisation supports young people in care and care leavers with legal advice, advocacy, and support.
https://www.justforkidslaw.org
 
Special thanks to everyone who helped with this episode including the care teams at Kirklees Council and Calderdale Council. 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music.
 
 
 
 
If you would like more youth-related podcast content, check out the What The Friday youth podcast:
 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BXIcHaznBB22boZhWLVMt?si=7db1508114594f00
 
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-the-friday-youth-podcast/id1684528663
 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YouthSocialCIC
 

Episode 4: Diagnosis TikTok and Good sexual health

In this episode of What The Friday, we dive into two key topics for teens and young adults: the importance of maintaining good sexual health and the risks of diagnosing health conditions through social media.
We are joined by Dr. Joy and Ellie a sexual health expert from Locala
We explore the reliability of online health advice, how to safely navigate good sexual health, and why speaking to professionals is crucial for proper care.
Listen in for honest conversations about social media, sexual health screenings, and breaking the stigma around these topics.
New episodes drop every Friday—subscribe now and stay informed!
Useful links: 
Find your local GP or register with a GP surgery https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
Locala sexual health pages
https://www.locala.org.uk/services/sexual-health
NHS Sexual Health page
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music.