Frequently Asked Questions
Below, you will find a list of the most common questions asked by parents and young people. Feel free to contact us if you have any specific questions.
Dave Linton
Youth Ministry Coordinator
1 Clonallon Court
Belmont Road
Belfast
BT4 2AB
Call 028 9080 8389 or email by clicking here
What time does Encounter start and finish?
On a Friday night, Encounter begins at 8.30pm and finishes at 11.00pm. Please check times for other youth activities. Doors open at 8.30pm and close at 9pm, with no re-entry after you have left the premises. Parents can pick up their young person any time throughout the night, although we advise that it is best to pick them up after 10pm at least so they can enjoy the full programme each week, with minimal disturbance to others.
Does it cost to attend Encounter?
There is no charge for entry to our regular youth programs on a Friday night. A small charge may be required for special events.
How is Encounter funded?
The youth ministry is primarily funded by Strandtown Baptist Church. We also take weekly offerings in which young people are encouraged to give towards the running costs. We believe this teaches young people to be responsible and to value their youth ministry.
What kind of training do your youth workers have?
Whilst some have specific qualifications in youth work, many of our senior youth workers simply have many years of experience in working with young people. They are also annually trained in child protection issues.
Who are the leaders?
We operate a leadership structure that we feel will best help us to achieve our purpose.
We have therefore adopted the terms: Team leader and Team member. An official Team Leader is someone over 18, who is approved by the church leadership to lead and equip their team in planning and running the area that they are responsible for.
An official Team member is someone over the age of 18, assisting in-group activities.
You may also note that we have Co-ordinators. This is the term we use to describe the person[s] who has overall responsibility for a particular age group or ministry area.
To hold one of the above positions, you must be 18 years old or over and have undergone the necessary recruitment procedures.
We also encourage young people under the age of 18 to help in youth activities whenever possible.
Do you have a Child Protection Policy?
Yes we do. To view a copy of our policy, please ask.
Why do I need to sign a consent form for my child to attend?
Our Child Protection Policy requires that every child attending Encounter has a ‘Parents registration and consent form’ to participate in our programs which should be completed and signed by a parent or guardian. This enables us to have an up-to-date record of contact details in the event of an emergency.
What kinds of activities are on offer?
Activities are age specific.
11-18’s activities are lively and energetic. The program for Friday nights include, social time, games, dynamic worship, inspirational Bible Teaching along with a lot of fun and banter.
Encounter has also a small group program called Life Groups for those who want to go deeper with God and experience real community. These are cells of no more than twelve young people and they happen at various times and locations each week. For more information please ask or check out Life Group section of web site.
Do you offer home visits or parental advice?
Yes we do. If you would like a youth worker to visit your child at home, or to drop in for a chat with yourself, please ask. You can of course call our office to speak to someone over the phone: 028 9080 8389.
What type of young people attend Encounter?
Our Equal Opportunities policy ensures that anyone, from any walk of life is welcome at Encounter. They are however required to adhere to the guidelines set out by the leadership and failure to do so may result in them being asked to leave.
How old does my child need to be to attend on a Friday?
Between the age of 11 to 18 (School years 8-14).
What is all the religious stuff about?
We are first and foremost a Christian Youth Ministry and this is reflected in the activities we do. For more information about what we believe please ask.
What do you do to ensure the safety of my child?
We always endeavor to do everything possible to ensure the safety of your child including, having a Child Protection Policy and a safe venue. We hope that working in partnership with parents, your child will have a safe, encouraging and enjoyable time at Encounter.
Does my child have to be a Christian to attend?
No. Whilst many of those attending are Christians and opportunities to become a Christian are regularly given, there is no obligation for your child to become a Christian.
