As well as being fun and rewarding, mentoring can be hard work and challenging. However, it is life changing for young people, and has significant benefits for their friends, families and communities. Without the support of local volunteers, willing to commit to our mentoring programme, we would not be able to provide this essential service for young people in South West Wiltshire.
Anyone with a passion to improve the lives of young people can be a great mentor, however there are some requirements. A mentor needs to be 18 or over, be able to attend three training sessions during weekends or evenings, complete a one-day course in basic first aid and commit to a few hours per week for a year or so.
Ideally a mentor would:
- be reliable
- have a positive outlook
- be approachable
- be a good listener
- be a good communicator
- show commitment
- be realistic
Benefits for the mentor include:
- modelling the importance of education, work and responsibility
- experiencing a new meaningful relationship with a young person
- broadening the young person’s horizons
- providing new opportunities and experiences
- passing on and using skills, knowledge and experience
- enhancing your CV
- learning new skills
- having fun
We ask all our mentors to complete an enhanced DBS check with the Disclosure and Baring Service (this is free of charge for volunteers) and to provide us with two referees. It is preferable but not essential to have a full UK driving licence and transport.
If you receive benefits, volunteering will not affect your entitlement as long as you continue to satisfy the conditions of your benefit. In fact, the DWP encourages volunteering. Check out the DWP guidance at GOV.UK:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/volunteering-and-claiming-benefits
To find out more about mentoring young people with Seed4Success, download the Mentoring Booklet and Flyer, and get in touch with Lee by phone, email or by using the contact form below.
To apply to become a mentor please download the Mentor Registration Form or contact Lee for a paper copy.
Thank you for your interest and we hope to hear from you soon.
Lee Cherry
Mentoring and Support Manager
Email: [email protected]
Mobile: 07570 819140
