HORIZONS
COMMUNITY MENTORING PROJECT
INFORMATION FOR VOLUNTEER SUPERVISORS
AIMS OF THE PROJECT
Horizons aims to help people who have experienced or are at risk of homelessness by offering support through trained volunteer mentors. Volunteers assist mentees to work towards achievable goals, develop new skills to successfully manage and maintain their new lifestyle and accommodation. A key aim is to support social inclusion, helping those to integrate into society and promoting equal opportunities.
WHO WILL I BE SUPERVISING?
ü A small number of volunteer mentors (maximum of 6 volunteers)
WHAT DOES A VOLUNTEER MENTOR DO
ü A volunteer mentor provides one to one support to someone who has been affected by homelessness or is at risk of homelessness.
ü They meet their mentee for up to 3 hours a week
ü Support is reviewed periodically.
ü The support mentors offer will vary, but here are some examples of what they may do with a mentee:
o Getting more involved in their local community
o Trying a new activity/Joining a club.
o Looking at volunteering opportunities, education and/or employment.
o Making new friends, building a better social life/ meeting up for coffee and a chat
WHAT SUPPORT WILL I BE OFFERING?
Volunteer mentors will be working with people with complex needs; often they may hear or see things that cause emotional upset, distress or concern; for example someone may share with them; abuse, bereavement, mental health and/or addictions issues. Or they may encounter situations which they may be uncertain about; this may be in respect of a professional or personal boundary or a health and safety issue. The nature of mentoring often means that mentors are working alone and in isolation. Volunteer supervisors offer mentors a supportive space for reflection, support and where necessary guidance on their mentoring practice, identifying any development or training needs. As well as ensuring that the volunteer is mentoring under the terms and agreements set by Second Steps policies and procedures.
WHAT SUPPORT WILL I RECEIVE AS A VOLUNTEER SUPERVISOR
· Monthly supervision and guidance with the Senior Co-ordinator.
· Regular phone/email contact with Senior Co-ordinator.
· Group & Peer supervision.
· On-going training opportunities relevant to the role.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Nina Simmonds – Senior Co-ordinator: 0117 9145497 / 07730656909 Email: . Horizons, Second Step, 9 Brunswick Square, Bristol, BS2 8PE
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