Stirling Council’s Mentoring Service has recruited and trained 16 new mentors to support care leavers transition into adulthood.
Young people aged 16-25 are matched with a caring adult mentor who will seek to build a relationship based on trust and mutual respect.
The consistent presence of an adult who shows interest in them and supports them through difficulties is seen as a crucial step towards helping young people achieve healthy relationships in later life.
Volunteering
Senior Manager for Children and Families Marie Valente said: “There has been overwhelming support by the public for this project, which is demonstrated by the number of mentors who have come forward to help through volunteering.
“Becoming an adult is a daunting and challenging time for all of us, especially for care leavers who, through no fault of their own, have been dealt a difficult hand in life.
“By providing them with a caring adult mentor we hope to be able to smooth their transition into adulthood and help raise ambition and belief in what they can achieve. Your background should not determine your future and the right support at the right time can transform a life.”
The focus of the mentor is on:
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developing a relationship.
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recognising and building the strengths of the young person to help them achieve their individually set goals.
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providing support and encouragement to deal with difficult and challenging situations.
Training
Volunteers receive training in mentoring skills, child protection, boundaries, and confidentiality, and it is hoped that by providing a consistent relationship they will be able to help improve the young person’s social and educational outcomes, and also possibly job prospects.
Stirling Council appointed a Mentoring Co-ordinator last summer to develop and manage the Mentoring Service. A Steering Group consisting of mentors, young people and management will also be formed to ensure the growth and development of the Mentoring Service.
If you are interested in being a mentor please visit the Stirling Council.