Mentors who make a difference sought for school support
An award-winning programme is seeking 100 new mentors to sign up to support pupils across three local secondary schools – including in Blairgowrie.
Charity MCR Pathways’ mentors share an hour each week during the school term with a young person.
The project, titled ‘Young Talent’, is designed to increase the pupils’ confidence, while helping them to overcome any challenges they may face and focus on their education.
It is hoped this support will help the young people obtain a place college, university or start a job in full or part-time employment.
Mentors are matched with a young person based on shared experiences, hobbies, career
aspirations and personality traits.
The process begins for nominated pupils from S3 onwards and is specifically geared towards what a spokesperson described as “the increasing number of vulnerable young people facing an uncertain future.”
Full training and ongoing support is provided and no qualifications are required.
In addition to Blairgowrie High School, the project is also delivered by jointly by Perth and Kinross Council and MCR Pathways at Perth Grammar and the Fair City’s St John’s RC Academy.
Mhairi Douglas, a project manager with the charity, said “We are thrilled to see the impact that the Young Talent programme has had on young people across Perth and Kinross since it was launched here in 2020.
“The difference a one hour meeting makes to a young person is incredible.
“For many of our mentors and mentees, it’s the best hour of their week.”
Fay Gingell, CEO of MCR Pathways, added: “The local community has really embraced the programme and it’s great to see people reaping the rewards.
“Not only are the futures of our young people improved, but mentors also gain enhanced listening skills, improved coaching skills and a friend for life.
“If you can spare one hour per week to help a young person or if you’re in an organisation who could encourage staff to get involved, we’d love to hear from you.”
Last year, the Scottish Government announced a major funding package to help the rollout of MCR’s Young Talent programme, which currently supports 4000 young people each week across 16 local authorities.
For more information visit the website www.mcrpathways.org or send an email to perth-kinross@
mcrpathways.org.