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* After a full assessment and training weekend, followed by a home visit from one of our caseworkers, we will look to match you with a care experienced you * To have an enhanced DBS check and provide required references * To understand and abide by all our policies * To pick up and drop home the child/young person * To establish/develop a friendship with the mentee * Provide non-judgemental support to mentee * Attend regular (weekly initially for six months/then monthly) supervision (phone) * Attend reviews with mentee/caseworker * Complete expenses
Whilst Friendship Works welcomes and encourages mentors from all walks of life, there are some minimum requirements. All volunteer mentors must: • be in a settled period of life • be 21 or over • live in or around London, to make travelling once a week a realistic commitment • not have caring responsibilities for a child under 14 • be able to make time three times a month to meet with the child/young person they support. There are no formal qualifications needed to become a volunteer mentor, but we look for some key personal qualities. Emotional maturity; commitment; relationships and approach to youth mentoring
Volunteer mentors have the opportunity to build a friendship and connect with a child/young person in their community who needs more support. They are able to get more involved in their communities as a result. Existing mentors find it rewarding to see the world through the eyes of a care experienced young adult. Many have developed new interests as a result of their friendship. Experienced mentors tell us that in addition to being lots of fun, volunteering with Friendship Works has helped them develop skills such as: • communication • active listening • increased empathy • planning • change/expectation management
3 to 4 hours, 3 times a month at weekends
