One-to-one volunteer mentors required
The pandemic has had a negative impact on children and young people living in York and it is important that we reopen our one-to-one mentoring programme as soon as it is safe to do so.
In preparation for the charity's reopening, we are looking to recruit and train as many one to one volunteer mentors as possible so that we can provide vulnerable children and young people with the help they need, sooner rather than later.
Here are some of the FAQs about our one-to-one mentoring programme:
How do our become a volunteer mentor and do I need experience?
Becoming a mentor is simple. The first step is to fill out the application form and then email us your completed form. No experience is required as we'll provide you with full training and finance your Enhanced DBS Check. Once we've received your completed application form, someone will get in touch to arrange your initial training. During training you will be able to express any particular interests which will then be used to match you with one of our young people. A member of the team will then support you in meeting the young person to get to know each other and to arrange for mentoring to start.
How long do I need to commit to the one-to-one mentoring programme?
The one-to-one mentoring programme is 52 weeks long, however, it is completely flexible around your work commitments and holidays. Each session typically lasts between 1-3 hours, it all depends on the activity and the young person. Occasionally mentors may like to take their young person on a day trip but this will always be organised with you beforehand. Each individual relationship is different and you will find that you soon establish a routine.
I’m a student and go home during holidays – can I mentor? I’m retired and want to give something back – can I mentor?
Anyone can mentor! – You do not need to have specific qualifications or experience, we welcome all applications. Previous mentors have had varying levels of experience with children and young people, from professionals to parents. We have a number of mentors from all walks of life, with varying personal situations.
What support will I get during my mentoring?
You will be allocated a mentor supervisor who will be there to help you with all aspects of your mentoring. If any issues arise during or between sessions you can contact your supervisor to discuss these. You will also attend regular supervision meetings (approximately every 6 weeks) to discuss how the mentoring is progressing and voice any concerns you might have.
What can I do with my mentee?
There are so many things you and your mentee can get up to! The opportunities are endless. Take a look at some activity examples and read what our current mentors get up to with their mentees. When you become a mentor you will be given an activities guide with exclusive discounts to use on your sessions. Activities don’t have to be extravagant; many of our mentees enjoy simply going out for a walk or visiting the library. A lot of our young people love to take an active role in planning activities, so you will never be out of ideas!
Can I mentor as part of a work placement?
Mentoring requires you to commit a few hours a week for one year. If this satisfies the conditions of your placement then please feel free to contact us to discuss more or fill out an application form.
I can’t commit to the mentoring scheme. Are there any other volunteering opportunities?
Apart from mentoring opportunities, we are also always on the look out for fundraising volunteers who offer a vital lifeline to securing guaranteed mentoring sessions for the vulnerable children and young people who use our services. If you have any questions then please click here to contact us
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