Side by Side Mentor for Care Leavers - West Berkshire

NYAS' Side by Side care leaver programme supports care-experienced young people leaving care. When young people leave care, they often struggle with isolation, homelessness, and living independently because they are often thrown into independence way before they're ready.

Side by Side bridges the gap between care and adulthood. We want to give young people the support they need to really succeed, but just as importantly, we want to make them feel confident in knowing that somebody is by their side.

There's a lot you can do as a volunteer for Side by Side, including assisting young people with their transition to adulthood, discovering their aspirations and goals, and generally supporting and signposting them to help achieve these.

About NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service)

NYAS is a leading rights-based charity who provide advocacy and legal representation to children and vulnerable adults when important decisions are being made about them. Since 1979, we have been delivering services to support and empower vulnerable children and adults.

What skills do I need?

You do not need any special qualifications, but we are looking for dedicated people who are comfortable with mentoring and being a good role model for a young person who may have experienced difficult times during their childhood. We ask that you are able to commit to a few hours each week for a minimum of 1 year.

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience and meet new people.

You will have an hour or two to spare each week for the minimum of 1 year

You will have good communication skills

You will receive training in boundaries, goal setting and reflective check ins.

You will enjoy meeting with others and supporting them to achieve their goals.

You will receive all the support and training you need to make the most of your role.

Volunteers will be supported in their own professional development and you will gain experience that could help in your future career goals.

Expenses will be reimbursed. 

An interview and selection process including an enhanced DBS check, references and a digital risk assessment are required for this role. Please have a look at the role description above, which explains more about the skills needed for this role and the activities involved.

Please note: This opportunity is for people aged 25 years and over. As Side by Side supports care leavers and young adults (typically aged 18–25) with achieving independence and life goals, we are looking for volunteers who can offer a greater breadth of life experience, maturity and positive role modelling. The role may involve supporting young people with areas such as education, employment, finances, housing and developing independent living skills, making the ability to draw on personal life experience particularly valuable.

When is this role available?

This is a flexible role available on various days/times.

Details

This will be by arrangement with your young person according to your calendar and theirs.

Where does this role take place?