Unplug to Reconnect Youth Event : What Happened

On 18th October 2025, we hosted Unplug To Reconnect at Kingswood School in Bath. It was an inspiring afternoon bringing together families, young people, and experts to explore the impact of smartphones and how we can reconnect in real life.

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Exploring The Problem

The first half of the event focused on understanding the challenges young people face in a digital world.

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We opened with a welcome from Nicola and Laura, Co-Founders of The Digital Detox Club, before sharing a powerful short film from Boys in Mind.

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Through a mix of movement, music, and honest conversation, the session explored the emotional and social effects of smartphone use. A collaborative movement piece with Theatre Royal and the Black Families Education Support Group set the tone for a reflective and engaging start.

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Talks throughout this section unpacked:

• how social media can contribute to isolation and division

• what’s happening behind the scenes in big tech

• the growing link between smartphones and young people’s mental health

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A particularly powerful moment came from young people themselves, sharing their experiences of starting secondary school without a smartphone—offering a rare and honest perspective.

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Exploring Solutions

The second half shifted towards hope, agency, and practical ways forward.

Speakers and performers shared how we can begin to reclaim control of our digital lives and reconnect with what it means to be human—through creativity, movement, nature, and presence.

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Highlights included:

• inspiring perspectives on taking back control from technology

• spoken word and reflections on the importance of being present

• insights into the benefits of art, writing, exercise, music, and nature for mental wellbeing

 

Together, this created a sense of possibility—showing that small, intentional changes can make a meaningful difference.

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Reconnecting Offline

We closed the event with an interactive breakout session, inviting families to step away from screens and try something new together.

Guests explored a range of offline activities, including:

• fabric art and creative workshops

• clay and crafts

• movement through FreeG (parkour and gymnastics)

• family yoga and fitness sessions

 

This final session brought the day to life—filled with conversation, creativity, and real-world connection.

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Unplug To Reconnect was a reminder that while the challenges of the digital world are real, so is our ability to choose something different.