Drop-in Q&Drop-in Q&A - a visitor's view
Thinking of coming to allsorts? One of the members tries to answer some of your questions. If you're thinking that allsorts might be a good place for you, here are some questions and answers which might help you think it through. Then we've got some instructions on how to get in touch if you want to come, and some advice for how allsorts can still help if you decide not to come to the drop-in yet.

What's it like coming to allsorts for the first time?

We arrange for new people to come along a bit early to the Allsorts venue. A support worker will meet you and have a few minutes to chat with you to let you know about the drop-in and Allsorts. Then they will introduce you to some of the regular members who are there that week. You can work out how to get to Allsorts by looking at our 'getting to allsorts' page.

As the first few people arrive for the drop-in, a worker or volunteer will usually stay with you and introduce to more young people. The workers and volunteers will look out for you all the time to ensure that you are not left sitting on your own or feeling awkward. The whole group has an informal meal together at 6.30 and then we gather for any LGBT announcements at 7pm. Then there will usually be a group activity or discussion or people will sit and use the internet or just hang out in the court yard. The activities are easy to participate in and fun and relaxed - it's a good way of feeling safe and getting to know people, particularly if you're a bit shy or nervous.

At the end of the night people will generally hang around for a few minutes. The young people usually arrange to go out to a pub immediately after the drop-in finishes, and everyone is invited. Most of the time, someone will remember to ask the new people if they want to come, but if not, just tag along anyway!

Who else is already at allsorts?

There are a wide range of people who attend Allsorts. Varying from 13 to 25, with an average age of about 19-20. Some are at school/college/university, some are working and some are unemployed. Some people have been out for several years, and some are just thinking about what their sexual orientation or gender identity. On average, there are about 20 - 25 people at each drop-in, so there's a good chance that you'll meet someone you can get on with.

Who would be able to find out I went to Allsorts?

The Allsorts project keeps records of numbers, ages etc and home area of all people attending in order to monitor and evaluate how things are going. However, there is no need to record your name and if you do give any personal information, it will be treated by staff as confidential - they are the only people who will be able to look at you details. Young people attending Allsorts are also expected to respect the privacy of others by not repeating things said during the group discussions and remembering that if they should meet someone outside of the group, they may not want the people they are with at that time to know they had been.

Do I have to join in the activities?

No, but there are plenty of other things for you to do. There are books, magazines, and Internet-connected PCs available at the drop-in.

Will I be able to get some one-to-one help with a support worker?

The workers are very busy during the drop-in sessions, but you can book time with them at other times. Just ask.

Will I find a boyfriend/girlfriend?

Many of the people who attend Allsorts are doing so because they want to meet other people and sometimes that includes looking for a relationship, but the primary purpose of the group is to be supportive and welcoming to everyone there, so any relationships that form tend to do so outside of the actual drop-in times.

Will I be having to fight off swarms of people flirting with me?

NO! Most people realise that when you are meeting a group of people for the first time, it's best to get to know them slowly. If anyone gives you unwanted hassle speak to an Allsorts worker or volunteer.

Are there any other ground rules?

Everyone has to abide by the rules of the building and the Allsorts ground rules, which have been written by young people. These include no drug or alcohol use and no smoking except in the courtyard. Everyone is expected to treat each other with respect and keep the drop-in a safe place for all who attend.

What exactly is there to do?

During the drop-in, there are books and magazines and the Internet available plus sitting around chatting and drinking tea. Most drop-ins include an organised activity such as a talk, making something, watching a video, etc. You can find out more about this by looking at the rest of the this section in the website.

OK, I want to come, what do I do?

Get in touch with one of the workers, by phone or email and let them know you want to come. They'll arrange for you to meet with them at the Allsorts venue, usually about 15 minutes before the Drop-In opens. You can work out how to get to Allsorts by looking at our 'getting to allsorts' page.

I don't want to come at the moment, any advice?

You can still phone or email the helpline for a general chat, or keep in touch with us by coming back to this site. You can get one-to-one support even if you don't attend the main drop-in. Or perhaps you might find one of the other services in our links or local services sections is better for you.