Alex signed up to be a volunteer mentor after he came across a Befriend a Child social media post searching for male volunteers. We matched Alex with a 15-year-old boy called Jason and they have been together for 9 months. Jason was referred to our mentoring programme due to low self-esteem and social isolation, having experienced abuse and poor mental health. He was in need of a positive adult role model to support him.
From the initial home visit they both hit things off; Jason was welcoming and engaged, taking particular interest in Alex’s fitness and gym activities, which is something they decided to do for their first outing together. Since then, Alex and Jason have met every fortnight, doing activities such as going to the gym and the golf range. Sometimes Jason simply asks Alex if they can just go for a walk where they will speak about everything and anything from trees to the hopes for his future.
When Jason was asked about his mentor Alex, he said:
“Alex makes me feel very heard and supported. It has boosted my confidence and helped me get out of the house more and helped with my mental health”
When speaking to Jason’s gran about the mentoring, she said:
“I’m so grateful for Alex, he thinks the world of Jason and Jason enjoys his company. He’s so lovely and always has time for a chat and a catch up”
Jason’s confidence can be seen to have grown with the help of Alex, out of school he has attended his first mixed martial art training camp and even won his first fight. Jason recently left school and is currently starting college for health and fitness which is a really positive step.
When Alex was asked about his mentoring journey he said:
“The mentoring is not only helping Jason but also me personally. I’m enjoying having another male to speak to and share experiences with, as I come from a household of females. He describes his and Jason’s relationship ‘like a Grandad and Grandson’ relationship and wouldn’t have it any other way”
Do you think you could be a listening ear, positive role model and help transform the life of a child or young person living in difficult circumstances? Alex and Jason’s story truly indicates the importance of mentoring and how a positive role model can open new opportunities, experiences and outcomes for the children and young people who need us most.
If you think you could be that person, get in touch today at volunteer@befriendachild.org.uk