Could you spare a few hours a week to help a young person?
Wirral Council’s Youth Justice Service is looking for more Volunteer Mentors who can help those that want support to keep them on the right track.
Mentoring is an important service offered to young people who are in the youth justice system. They are matched with a Volunteer Mentor who will act as a positive role model, offering support and guidance which focuses on making positive steps away from offending.
All mentoring relationships will have different aims. You may help support a young person back into education or training, find positive social activities for them to engage with, play sports, walk the dog, or simply sit on a bench and talk. It sounds simple, but you may be the first adult to voluntarily listen to that young person and respect their views and opinions.
Carl Loughlin, Volunteer Coordinator with the Youth Justice Service, said, “Mentors come from a wide range of backgrounds. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what your education is, as long as you are willing to support and listen to a young person and are able to spare a few hours a week.”
Dougie Taylor, a Mentor of over 12 years, said: “One of the greatest benefits I get as a Mentor is seeing a young person change and start doing better for themselves. Once you get to know them and take them slightly out of their comfort zone, you see a totally different person. “
Sara Owen, who has been a Youth Justice Mentor for over three years, added,
“If you think you can help a young person make a positive change, that help is invaluable. Every young person deserves the opportunity to make positive changes, they just sometimes need a bit of help and support. If you’ve got the time to do it, then do it.”
All volunteers will be fully trained before becoming a Mentor and will receive ongoing support throughout their time with the Youth Justice Service.
To find out more, please contact Carl Loughlin on 0151 666 4960 or by email at carlloughlin2@wirral.gov.uk 
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