Young people from Enable Ability’s Portsmouth Teenage Project enjoyed an evening of connection, confidence-building and pure fun during a recent visit to Hollywood Bowl at Gunwharf Quays.
Designed for young people aged 11-16 with mild to moderate disabilities, the session provided a welcoming and relaxed space where everyone could take part at their own pace, supported by the charity’s dedicated staff and volunteers.
From the moment the first bowling balls rolled down the lanes, it was clear the evening was about much more than just scoring points. Participants developed key life skills including fair competition, turn-taking and teamwork, while celebrating each other’s successes and learning how to navigate both wins and near-misses with confidence.
A standout moment for many was stepping up to independently order their own drinks from the bar. This simple but powerful experience helped build communication skills, decision-making and independence, giving young people the opportunity to interact in a real-world setting with growing confidence.
Beyond the lanes, the group also explored the arcade area, where they practiced money management, problem-solving and social interaction, all wrapped up in a fun and engaging environment. The evening concluded with a shared meal, offering further opportunities to develop table manners, conversation skills and group bonding.
As always, the staff at Hollywood Bowl were incredibly accommodating, helping to create an inclusive atmosphere where every young person felt comfortable and supported. Their continued commitment to accessibility has made the venue a valued partner for the project.
With exciting building works currently underway at Gunwharf Quays, the Portsmouth Teenage Project team is already looking forward to returning and seeing how the space evolves, with the hope that it will open up even more opportunities for inclusive experiences in the future.
Enable Ability remains committed to creating meaningful opportunities like this, where young people can build confidence, develop independence and, most importantly, enjoy being themselves in a supportive social setting.
