With several years working with young people as a mentor, I have developed a real understanding of the needs, challenges, and realities of supporting young people. My mentoring experience has allowed me to develop key skills required when supporting young people like listening skills, empathy, problem solving and providing non-judgemental and consistent support. 

 

More than anything I understand how important it is to build that trusting relationship with young people and be a role model – it comes from a place of once seeking that myself. 

 

I also have lived experience which puts me in a beautiful place to be able to empathise and really understand young people. My journey hasn’t been easy and it allows me to put myself in young people’s shoes, to feel what they are really going through and think about how I can support them.

 

From a practical perspective through my mentoring experience, I have been given training in safeguarding and confidentiality. I am also able to provide a full DBS check and references for added reassurance. 

 

The programme is structured in a way to empower young people to think about their goals and steer the programme in a way that suits them. However, prior to commencing the programme I will also have an initial call with the responsible adults of the young person to tell you a little bit about me, the programme and what goals we have set. Regular catch ups on progress can also be arranged.