Every week, volunteers from Bath & North East Somerset are changing young people’s lives through Mentoring Plus’s award-winning Volunteer Mentoring programme. With over 200 young people supported every year, we explore how the simple act of giving just 2 hours a week can make a world of difference to both mentees and their mentors.
Now in its 26th year, the key to Mentoring Plus’s Volunteer Mentoring Programme’s success is its positive, playful, and child-led approach. Young people aged 7-25 are matched with
a trained volunteer mentor for up to 12 months. With constant support from a skilled practitioner and a weekly allowance, mentoring pairs explore the local community, engaging in fun activities.
Although every mentee faces challenges at school, at home, or with their well-being, mentors are not counsellors or problem-solvers. They are positive role models who provide undivided attention and encouragement, helping mentees explore their interests, whether that’s sport, cooking, or board games. For a young person, having a mentor who chooses to be there and support them makes all the difference
Volunteer mentors make an incredible impact in just 1-2 hours a week. A recent report revealed that after mentoring, 90% of mentees improved communication, 86% increased their confidence and self-esteem, and 81% felt safer. However, demand for the programme is at an all-time high. Now, more than ever, Mentoring Plus needs kind-hearted adults seeking
a fulfilling and flexible volunteer role to join them.
Offering inspiration to potential volunteers, are mentee Daniella* and volunteer mentor Richard*, who have shared their story of mentoring.
Daniella’s Story (Mentee)
When I was 14 years old, life was difficult. I was low and spent most of my time alone. My school noticed I was struggling and referred me to the Volunteer Mentoring Programme.
After my practitioner got to know me, I started meeting my mentor. Because I was into reading, we would read a book together in our sessions. We also did other things like cooking, going to the cinema, and learning crafts.
Before mentoring, I couldn’t see the skills that I had, but now I do. I know how to make things happen for myself and how to talk about my feelings. Life doesn’t feel rubbish anymore. I feel more confident and happier.
I’m now part of the Mentoring Plus Youth Reps Group, organising activities that help other young people. I would really like to become a mentor or even one day take over my practitioner’s job!
Richard’s Story (Mentor)
I’ve been a volunteer mentor on and off for eight years. I’ve learnt that mentoring isn’t about fixing a young person, but being someone who can be young at heart, show genuine interest, and be trusted. It’s about showing a young person how their future could be different.
It can take a few sessions to establish a connection, but you know you’re making a difference when your mentee finally asks about you or greets you with a big smile. These small changes may not seem like much, but for kids struggling with poor mental health or difficulties at home, they mean a lot.
It’s a privilege to be there for a young person at a difficult time in their life and be someone they can trust when perhaps they don’t have anyone else.
*Not their real names
Find out more / apply to become a volunteer mentor
•● bit.ly/VolunteerMentoringPlus
•● volunteering@mentoringplus.net
•● 01225 429 694
•● mentoringplus.net