Universal benefits of mentoring young people

‘As beneficial for the volunteers as it is for the vulnerable children it helps.’ That is how Children 1st’s intandem service, helping some of Kintyre’s most at risk youngsters, has been described. The organisation urgently needs local people with a sense of fairness and fun, who can give a weekly commitment to mentor a young person in Campbeltown. Children 1st, Scotland’s children’s charity is one of 13 partner organisations funded by the Scottish Government to deliver Scotland’s first ever national mentoring programme for ‘looked after’ children who are living at home. The programme is specifically for youngsters aged eight to 14, who are looked by their local authority and living at home. The service aims to recruit, train and support mentors to build a trusting relationship with one young person. Weekly sessions will include working with the young person to set goals for issues and interests that matter to them, challenging them to find their own strengths and abilities, and sharing a hobby, interest or skill. Maggie Farrell, volunteer coordinator, told the Courier: ‘Many people point out to us the health and wellbeing benefits of volunteering, how it combats stress and reduces feelings of isolation. ‘We have found through training and supporting volunteers it has positive effects on mind and body. ‘Everyone knows that building good relationships and connecting with others socially promotes feelings of wellbeing, gives us a sense of belonging and increases self esteem.’ Could you be the trusted adult in a young person’s life? Children and young people deserve reasons to smile whatever their circumstances. Find out what the power of mentoring could do for a vulnerable young person, for you and your community. Volunteer mentor training will begin in September and October, with regular support and out of pocket expenses provided. Visit www.children1st.org.uk to download a recruitment pack or email maggie.farrell@children1st.org.uk for more information.