The mentoring programme is for young people aged 11–18 in South Gloucestershire, providing a safe space to talk, build confidence, and support emotional wellbeing.

The cost per session is fixed and remains the same for all referrals, whether made by a school, local authority, or private individual (parent/carer). The only difference is how payment is structured. For schools, local authorities, and other organisations, payment is made in advance in blocks of 6 sessions at a time.

For private referrals, payment is made in advance of each session, although the exact structure can be discussed during initial contact to find the most suitable arrangement. Private referrals that book a block of 6 or more sessions will receive a 10% discount on the final total cost.

The standard session cost and full payment details will be shared during initial discussion.

All mentoring sessions are delivered by myself, ensuring consistency and a strong, trusting relationship.

I founded this mentoring programme after over 5 years of experience supporting young people in a range of roles. This includes working as a youth mentor across different organisations, a peer representative within a mental health charity, and a support worker in children’s homes.

Alongside this practical experience, I hold a degree in Psychology and have completed crisis support training, allowing me to provide psychologically informed support that is grounded in both theory and real-world practice. This includes an understanding of how emotional, behavioural, and mental health difficulties can develop and present in young people, and how to respond in a supportive, safe, and effective way.

Yes, I hold an Enhanced DBS check and am trained in Safeguarding Levels 2 and 3. I am also the Designated Safeguarding Lead. Safeguarding is a priority in all sessions, and I follow clear procedures to ensure every young person is safe and supported.

Sessions are relaxed and tailored to each young person’s needs and interests. Sessions can take place in a variety of ways to help young people feel comfortable and engaged. This may include walks or active sessions, sports or outdoor activities, creative or artistic activities, educational visits, or simply time to talk and reflect in a relaxed environment. Occasionally, we may also get a snack or meal together as part of the session. These different approaches help create a natural, supportive environment where young people feel at ease, can build trust, and open up at their own pace.

The programme usually has a minimum length of around 12 weeks, with weekly sessions. In some individual cases, it may be shorter depending on the young person’s needs and circumstances. However, the main focus is on building a supportive, long-lasting mentoring relationship, so many mentoring journeys continue beyond 12 weeks where appropriate.

Sessions typically take place weekly and are commissioned for around 3 hours in total. This includes approximately 2 hours 45 minutes of direct time with the young person, followed by around 15 minutes to independently complete necessary session notes and reflections. Introductory sessions may be shorter to help the young person feel comfortable and ease them into the process. In some cases, if a young person is disengaging or finding sessions difficult, sessions may also be shorter. If this happens regularly, the plan will be reviewed and adjusted to ensure the right level of support is in place.

If a young person doesn’t feel able or willing to attend a session on a particular day, this is handled with understanding and flexibility. There is no pressure to force participation. However, there are no refunds for missed sessions where the young person chooses not to attend or disengages throughout a session. I will try to understand what is going on and support the young person, which may include adapting the session. If there is no attendance or engagement over a period of 6 weeks, the plan will be formally reviewed to decide whether adjustments are needed or whether the programme remains suitable. The priority is always to maintain trust, keep communication open, and ensure the young person feels safe and supported.

If a session is missed due to my illness or unavoidable circumstances, an additional replacement session will be offered where possible. If this is not possible, a refund will be issued.

Yes, I hold full professional indemnity and public liability insurance to cover all mentoring activities. In addition, I also have appropriate business insurance in place for travel, including use of my car for work-related journeys and I hold a full, clean driving licence. This ensures all sessions and associated travel are covered and delivered safely and professionally.

No, this is not therapy or counselling. It is 1-to-1 mentoring focused on supporting young people with confidence, life skills, and navigating everyday challenges in school and life. While I draw on my experience and training in working with young people, mentoring is not a clinical or therapeutic service, and does not replace counselling or mental health treatment.

Sessions are delivered in person only. They may be in held in safe community settings such as public spaces, walks, or activity-based environments. Locations are chosen based on what is most suitable and appropriate for supporting the young person during sessions.

Yes, pick-up and drop-off is included and agreed in advance. This may be from home, school, or other approved addresses, depending on the individual referral, location, and safeguarding considerations. All arrangements will always be confirmed with parents, carers, or the referring school before sessions begin.

Many young people become more confident, communicate more effectively, and feel better equipped to handle challenges in school and everyday life. Outcomes will vary depending on the individual, but the focus is always on personal growth, confidence, and practical life skills. To help track progress, a short questionnaire is completed at the start of the programme and then repeated every 3 months. This helps monitor development over time and ensures sessions continue to meet the young person’s needs.

To get started, simply complete the referral form. Once received, I’ll be in touch within 2 weeks to talk through the next steps. If you have any questions beforehand, or you’re unsure whether the programme is the right fit, you’re very welcome to use the contact page to ask any questions. I’m always happy to help and talk things through.