How Northern Soul helped ADHD teen keep the faith

Keiven said the Northern Soul scene was like "one big family"

A teenager struggling to make friends because of his anxiety says he has found a home on the Northern Soul dancefloor.

Fourteen-year-old Keiven, from Sheffield, who has ADHD and dyslexia, discovered the music scene after being taken to a club night by his grandfather, Bryan.

The pair bonded over their shared love of the tracks, clothing and dance moves, which define the scene, with Keiven labelling Bryan his "inspiration".

"The music, the feel, the people, it's like one big family," said Keiven.

Keiven, who said his favourite song was Frank Wilson's Do I Love You (Indeed I Do), said the music "makes me feel good," adding: "It's really helped and brought me out my comfort zone."

"It's a good way to help mental health and, if you have ADHD, that's a good way to keep you stimulated."

Keiven's mum, Vanessa, said her son did not leave the house a lot because of his anxiety but attending Northern Soul nights with his grandparents had given him "something to look forward to".

"I'm definitely the youngest there every time I go out," said Keiven, who hopes to compete at Northern Soul dancing competitions in the future.

Keiven was introduced to Northern Soul by his grandfather Bryan, right

Bryan said he became hooked on Northern Soul after attending his first club night back in 1984.

He said: "When I was watching [people dancing], they weren't dancing with their legs, they were dancing with their hearts and they were dancing with passion - you could see it in their face."

Years later, younger people like Keiven are helping keep the scene alive, according to John Kane, who presents the Northern Soul show on BBC Local Radio.

"It's great to see someone like Keiven get involved and it's great to see other young people do as well," he said.

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