How did you first get involved with The Gaming Connection?
Well, a little man called John Chamberlain pressed me into service. John is a Specialist Support Worker on the Language and Autism Support Team.
What is your role at The Gaming Connection now?
I now volunteer at the club, having previously attended as a member. I wanted to stay involved – it’s in the name! I’m a hardcore gamer and a tabletop gamer, so it felt natural to continue.
I chose to volunteer for several reasons, especially the experience. I’ve learned a lot from supporting the club, particularly about working with younger people. It’s been one of the most influential things I’ve done in that area.
I used to write reviews for the club quite regularly, and my social skills have definitely improved. When I first joined, I wasn’t very talkative, but now I feel comfortable while still being respectful of other people’s time and space.
How did you feel when you first joined The Gaming Connection?
Back in secondary school, I went to social skills clubs – and they were very boring. So when I heard John was changing the name from Social Circle to The Gaming Connection, I was really glad because the new name was much more appealing.
I remember feeling very stressed at the time – it was a tough period with COVID, exams, and transitions. The club definitely felt like it was a reprieve from all the chaos. I thought it was going to be in person, and I wasn’t ready for that because of COVID, so I was relieved when John said it would be online.
What do you enjoy most about The Gaming Connection?
Hearing everyone’s stories. The “news” section is my favourite part because it’s so varied – people talk about the wildest things, and it’s great to hear about others when we spend so much time talking about ourselves.
It’s like going camping, sitting around a fire and sharing stories – even though it’s online. It’s such a nice way to connect with people, especially in London where there’s a culture of social avoidance. It's inspiring listening to other people.
Has The Gaming Connection supported you in your education or personal development outside of the sessions?
It's helped me feel more confident, which has definitely helped me with my education. When I was in deep water and mentioned it at the club, the team swooped in and saved me. If I didn’t have the club, I probably wouldn’t have graduated.
I also went to conventions and asked questions at events that the club supported me to attend, where games industry creators were giving talks and advice.
In what ways have the club and its team made a difference for you?
Socialising. The world is a grey slush of morality – things are never black and white, and no matter what you do, you’ll always be the villain in someone else’s story. The club has helped me navigate the fine, thin lines around that whole world.
What would you say to other young people who are thinking about joining The Gaming Connection?
I would say relax – don’t feel the need to contribute anything because it’s meant to be a relaxing, no-pressure space. You can just be there; you don’t have to say anything. You can use the chat or simply enjoy the company.
In my opinion, the company is the best part, and it’s there to be enjoyed. If you don’t enjoy it, that’s okay – not everything is for everyone.
When I do contribute, I feel fulfilled. I like to creatively put myself into different things.
Get involved
Find out about the support offered by the Language and Autism Support Team, and explore our youth clubs for autistic young people.
