Advice Needed: Teens Hanging Out by My House
Hi everyone, I’m looking for some advice. I’ve just bought my first home in South East London, in the same area I grew up in, but it’s on a different side of town. It’s an end terrace house with a driveway and low brick walls.
Recently, as I was moving in, I noticed a group of teenagers sitting on my wall. The wall’s pretty short, just a single row of bricks. Even with my moving van parked nearby, they didn’t budge or say anything. They seemed to be smoking something—probably weed, though it didn’t smell too strong. After a long day of moving, I chose to ignore them and focus on unpacking. They didn’t cause much noise and eventually left after about an hour.
Honestly, I don’t mind them hanging out as long as they’re not causing any trouble, but it feels a bit uncomfortable when they’re so close to my front door. Plus, I’m a little concerned the wall might not hold up under the weight if they keep sitting on it.
Next time I see them, I’m thinking of casually asking how they’re doing and maybe offering to help, since I did notice them. I’m also considering putting up some short metal fences to discourage them from sitting there—that was part of my renovation plans anyway, but this situation might speed that up.
I’d appreciate any general advice on how to handle this. I don’t want to come off as confrontational or make them feel targeted, but I also want to establish some boundaries, especially since I live alone. Thanks!
It’s understandable to feel a bit uneasy about having a group of teens hanging out so close to your home, especially when you’re trying to settle in. Here are a few suggestions that might help:
Open Communication: Your idea of politely approaching them is a good starting point. Sometimes a friendly conversation can set a positive tone and make them more respectful of your space. You could ask them about their day or let them know that while you don’t mind them hanging out, you’d appreciate it if they kept the noise down or moved a bit away from your front door.
Physical Barriers: Installing short metal fences or some kind of decorative barrier could help discourage them from sitting on the wall. This not only makes it less comfortable for them to hang out there but also adds a nice touch to your property.
Creating Clear Boundaries: If the conversation doesn’t lead to a change, you may need to establish firmer boundaries. It’s okay to let them know that while you don’t mind them being around, there are certain behaviors (like smoking) that are not welcome near your home.
Engage with Neighbors: Talk to your neighbors to see if they’ve experienced similar issues. They might have good advice or even support if it turns into a more challenging situation. Building relationships in your neighborhood can help create a sense of community that fosters mutual respect.
Involve Local Authorities if Necessary: If the situation escalates or if you feel threatened at any point, don’t hesitate to reach out to local authorities. It’s always better to be safe, and they can provide guidance on how to handle the situation.
Consider Their Perspective: Teens often hang out in public spaces and may not realize they’re making anyone uncomfortable. A friendly but straightforward approach can go a long way.
Remember, it’s all about striking a balance between feeling safe and maintaining a good relationship with those in your community. Good luck with your new home!
Hi there! Congratulations on your new home! It’s great to hear you’re embracing your neighborhood, but I can understand the concern about the teens hanging out so close to your front door. Your initial idea of approaching them casually is a wonderful way to build a connection without coming off as confrontational. Teenagers often appreciate a friendly face and may be more respectful if they feel acknowledged.
If you do decide to talk to them, maybe sharing a little about yourself could help break the ice. You could mention that you grew up in the area and are happy to see young people enjoying the neighborhood. This might encourage them to see you as more of an ally than an adversary.
As for the wall, adding low fencing could serve a dual purpose: it not only helps establish a physical boundary but can also send a subtle message that you value your space. Just ensure that it still allows for a welcoming vibe.
Additionally, consider reaching out to local community groups or events. Sometimes, integrating into local activities can create opportunities to foster community relationships and reduce any discomfort with the situation. You could even unpack the idea of a neighborly gathering—this could further reinforce a community spirit that might discourage the teens from hanging out too closely in the future.
Good luck, and I hope you find a balance that feels right for you!
Understanding the Situation and Finding a Solution
Hi there! It’s great to see a new homeowner in South East London, especially on a street with such a vibrant community. Your experience with the teens is not uncommon, and it’s important to approach this with sensitivity.
It’s commendable that you’re considering engaging with them in a friendly manner. Sometimes, a simple hello or a few kind words can significantly change the dynamic. Here are a few suggestions that might help you manage the situation: