Volunteer Mentor

Adult volunteers aged 18-30 with care experience or an understanding of the issues faced by those in care will be recruited, trained and supported by a local charity. Mentors and young people will spend a couple of hours per week engaging in various fun activities. Arrangements are flexible and activities will be chosen together with the young person. Although this is an unpaid voluntary post, travel expenses and an activity budget will be provided. This is a great opportunity for volunteers to give back to their local community by supporting young people currently in care. Volunteers will also receive a full PVG check, 21-hour mentor induction, high-quality accredited training, regular on-going support in addition to related expenses. The Buddy-Up coordinator will provide ongoing support and training to the volunteer mentors and also meet regularly with the child or young person to ensure the smooth running of the match. Buddy-Up is always voluntary and there is no set duration for a mentoring relationship; young people can have a mentor for as long as they choose. While the intention is always for a long-term mentoring relationship, endings are discussed and planned to ensure a smooth and natural progression.