This mentoring programme is suitable for young people aged 11–18 who may benefit from additional support, guidance, and a consistent positive adult relationship. Referrals may come from parents, schools, or other professionals, particularly where a young person may be experiencing challenges with confidence, emotional wellbeing, school engagement, or life circumstances.
Sessions are tailored to each young person’s needs and interests. Activities may include:
• Walks or active sessions
• Sports or outdoor activities
• Creative or artistic activities
• Educational visits
• Time to talk and reflect in a relaxed environment
• Occasionally getting a snack or meal together
These activities help create a natural and comfortable environment where young people feel able to talk and build trust.
Each mentoring relationship is guided by the STEP values, which form the foundation of the programme:
Creating a secure and supportive environment where young people feel comfortable expressing themselves.
Building consistent, respectful relationships so young people feel heard, understood, and valued.
Supporting young people to build confidence, resilience, and belief in their ability to shape their own future.
Working collaboratively with schools, families, and other professionals to ensure the best possible support for each young person.
The process is guided by Safety, Trust, Empowerment, and Partnership at every stage.
The process begins when a referral form is completed by a parent, school, local authority, or organisation. This ensures the right information is in place from the start so I can make safe, informed decisions about support.
Once received, I will make contact within 2 weeks to arrange the next step. This builds trust from the beginning and ensures clear, open communication with all parties involved.
An initial meeting is then offered (with or without the young person present), free of charge. This is a relaxed conversation to explore needs, ask questions, and understand whether mentoring is the right fit. There is no pressure to continue.
After the introductory meeting, time can be taken to reflect before moving forward. If everyone feels it is appropriate to continue, a clear agreement is put in place between myself and the referring party (parent, school, or local authority), ensuring expectations are shared and agreed together.
Once agreed, mentoring begins. Sessions are delivered in line with the plan, always adapting to the young person’s needs.
• Safety guides every session
• Trust is built through consistency
• Empowerment supports confidence and independence
• Partnership ensures ongoing communication and collaboration
A strong and consistent relationship between mentor and young person is central to the programme. Time is invested in building trust, understanding, and mutual respect, helping young people feel safe to open up and engage in the mentoring process. Wherever possible, mentoring relationships are designed to be long-term and consistent, allowing meaningful connections to develop and giving young people the best opportunity for positive and lasting outcomes.
