At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide one-to-one mentoring and support to vulnerable children in schools.
- Company: Mentor Link, a dedicated children's charity with 24 years of experience.
- Benefits: Make a difference, travel expenses paid, and ongoing support from our team.
- Other info: Join a community of like-minded individuals and share your life experiences.
- Why this job: Help young people thrive and achieve their full potential while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Empathy, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to support for at least 6 months.
Children's charity Mentor Link is recruiting Volunteer Mentors from the West Midlands and Gloucestershire, to provide one-to-one mentoring and therapeutic support to vulnerable and distressed children and young people in schools. Our aim with children who may be facing social and emotional difficulties, is to create a more positive attitude towards themselves and learning. With over 24 years' experience of providing a dedicated mentoring service, the well-being of young people forms the focus of our work.
In addition, we are providing our Emotionally Based School Avoidance project. Our aim with this project is to provide support to children and young people at the earliest opportunity where there are issues with school avoidance, based on social and emotional needs. Working in partnership with schools, parents and health professionals to provide support and assistance with the long-term aim of re-engaging the children back into school learning.
Mentor Link would like to hear from men and women who would like to support children and young people for around an hour each week. Volunteers are welcome from all walks of life, for example from local business or the community, with an interest in supporting a young person to achieve their full potential. The mentors are specially trained to listen to and support young people and aim to improve their self-esteem and engagement in learning.
DETAILED DESCRIPTIONDoes this sound like you?
- Can relate to children and young people
- Are punctual, reliable and can commit to a minimum 6 month period
- Have excellent listening and communication skills
- Are empathetic, kind and encouraging
- Have patience, flexibility and a willingness to persevere
- Are non-judgemental and open minded
- A desire to help young people
- Have life experiences to share
What's in it for you?
- Being part of a great charity
- Making a difference to the next generation
- Travel expenses paid
- Meeting like-minded people
- Ongoing support from our dedicated team
If you like a challenge and want to give something back to help make a difference to the lives of vulnerable young people then we would like to hear from you.
One young person writes about their Mentor: “I am glad I met you as you have allowed me to be who I am today and without you who knows where I would be right now.”
DUE TO THE NATURE OF OUR WORK, AND THE LOCATION OF THE SCHOOLS WE PROVIDE A SERVICE TO, IT IS PREFERRED THAT APPLICANTS HOLD A CURRENT DRIVING LICENCE AND HAVE ACCESS TO A VEHICLE.
Mentor Link are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This role is subject to safer recruitment checks, including 2 satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS certificate.
Volunteer Mentor employer: Mentor Link
Mentor Link is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable children and young people across the West Midlands and Gloucestershire. With over 24 years of experience, we foster a supportive work culture that values empathy and personal growth, offering volunteers the chance to develop their skills while making a difference in their community. Our commitment to ongoing support and training ensures that every mentor feels valued and equipped to help young people thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Mentor
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the charity! Research Mentor Link and understand their mission. This will help you connect with them during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former volunteers on social media or local community groups. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by thinking about real-life examples where you've shown empathy, patience, or support. These stories will help you stand out as someone who truly understands the role of a mentor.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Mentor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what motivates you to support young people.
Show Your Commitment:Make sure to highlight your reliability and commitment to the role. Mention any previous volunteering or mentoring experiences, and emphasise your willingness to dedicate at least an hour each week for a minimum of six months.
Tailor Your Application:Read the job description carefully and tailor your application to match the skills and qualities we’re looking for. Use specific examples from your life that demonstrate your listening skills, empathy, and ability to connect with young people.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you have all the latest info about the role and our organisation!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mentor Link
✨Know Your Why
Before heading into the interview, take a moment to reflect on why you want to be a Volunteer Mentor. Think about your passion for helping young people and how your life experiences can make a difference. This genuine motivation will shine through in your answers.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare specific examples that highlight your listening and communication skills. Think of situations where you've been empathetic or encouraging, especially with children or young people. These anecdotes will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Understand the Role
Familiarise yourself with the challenges faced by vulnerable children and the importance of mentoring. Research Mentor Link’s projects, like the Emotionally Based School Avoidance project, so you can discuss how you can contribute to their mission during the interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask the interviewer about the mentoring process and the support provided to volunteers. This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand how you can best support the young people you'll be working with.
