In a city as diverse and vibrant as Birmingham, it is important to support young people to unlock their potential. The Early Help Mentoring and Befriending Service, commissioned and funded by Birmingham Children's Trust, is essential to achieve this.
Birmingham City University and Our Place Support are supporting Barnardo’s in the delivery of the service, providing mentoring and befriending to 11-19-year-olds, as well as young adults between 20-25 who are either care experienced or have SEN.
The main role of BCU on the project is to source committed volunteers from its rich network of students, graduates, alumni, staff, and employer networks. This helps to ensure that mentors are enriching young people they support with a range of experiences and skillsets.
BCU volunteers actively deliver aspiration-raising and widening-participation activities with young people who access the service. This approach aims to provide opportunities for personal growth, career exploration, and confidence building.
Impact
Since the beginning of the project there has been very promising impact. In total, the project has had 411 expressions of interest to become volunteers. After initial screening for volunteers who meet the eligibility criteria, 250 showing interest have completed an online pre-screening form. 35 applicants have successfully gone through the stages of interviewing, DBS check, and started their mentoring journey.
This structured process of recruitment ensures mentors are dedicated and suitable for the position. 6 have completed their term of mentoring and have been awarded a certificate of completion, reaching a milestone in their contribution to the community.
The Early Help Mentoring and Befriending Service is a movement to inspire and empower young people in Birmingham. Mentors provide support that can change the trajectory of the life of a young person and gain valuable experience themselves.