WHAT IS THE GRANDMENTORS PROGRAMME ABOUT?
Grandmentors is an innovative volunteering project where older volunteers use their lifetime of skills and experience to support and mentor vulnerable young people leaving the care system. It is a flagship national programme that has won multiple national awards.
The programme is run by Volunteering Matters, a national charity working to fulfill their vision of a society where everyone can participate in their local community through volunteering and social action.
These young people who are out of employment, education or training (NEET) often need a guiding hand and role model to support them to find work, continue their education or begin training – ultimately giving them the skills and self-belief to lead successful and independent lives.
WHAT IS THE GRANDMENTOR ROLE ABOUT?
Volunteers meet with a young person each week to boost their confidence and work towards goals which are unique to each young person. Volunteers support where they can to help these young care leavers find their feet and reach their full potential. All volunteers are given full support and training throughout their time on the project.
WHAT ARE VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS?
- Be aged 50+
- Good people and communication skills, patience
- DBS (criminal record) check will be performed
- Long-term commitment (min. one year)
- Based in Milton Keynes
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING AS A GRAND MENTOR?
As a volunteer you’ll receive:
- Full training
- Ongoing support including monthly mentor support meetings
- Reimbursement of your expenses Expenses
WHAT DO THE EXISTING VOLUNTEER GRANDMENTORS SAY?
Through using my wisdom, experience, patience and creative mindset my mentee and I were able to focus on their new direction in life
Darren
The Grandmentors project appealed to me as it gives me the opportunity to work with young people who both need and want support. In a role where I would be able to share my knowledge and experience. I also hope that in doing so I will inspire others to volunteer.
Bernadette
I decided to become a Grandmentor in order to give myself a feeling of renewed pride as well as giving me the opportunity to have an involvement in the local community where I live
Sue
WHAT DO VOLUNTEERING MATTERS STAFF SAY…
Our Grandmentors give their mentee the pen and let them write their future
Stephen
HOW TO FIND OUT MORE AND APPLY
You can access the role through our Simply Connect volunteering platform – please follow this link to apply.
You can find out more about this innovative volunteering programme on: volunteeringmatters.org.uk/opportunity/grandmentors-mk or follow Volunteering Matters, including Kelly Israel, Volunteer Manager of the programme in MK, on social media.
Facebook: facebook.com/volunteeringmatters
Twitter: @volunteering_uk
@kelsrael
#Grandmentors
