The 'You and Me Project' is a new Youth Mentoring project that targets young people aged between 16-25. This project was created with the intention of helping young people in the community who have mental health problems by providing them with peer support. This has been achieved by recruiting volunteer mentors between the ages of 16-25 and matching them with a young person who may be experiencing mental distress.
We promote opportunities for mentees this includes increasing engagement of local activities, extending social networks, accessing employment, education and training opportunities. This is in addition to accessing any other services that will increase their independence.
However this is not just a one-way-street each mentor is fully trained in Mental Health Awareness, discussing the Project's policies and procedures, confidentiality, child protection, understanding cultural differences, first aid and understanding communication barriers and boundaries. Ultimately the mentors will gain a certificate in Community volunteering (equivalent to a nationally recognised qualification- two GCSE's Grade B).
The aim is to enhance creativity and encourage young people with mental health problems to gain confidence and extend their support networks within the local community.
PODCAST
Mentor Sally
Mentor Leena