REUK's educational mentoring programme matches young refugees with volunteer mentors for homework and English language learning support. Volunteering as a mentor is a great opportunity to welcome and support a young person who is a refugee or is claiming asylum.
This activity is good for wellbeing because
- you can support a young person’s learning, boost their confidence and help them feel more connected to their local community;
- helping others through mentoring can give your own wellbeing a boost, and help build your skills and confidence;
- you are able to build a supportive relationship with your mentee – seeing them develop over time can be extremely rewarding.
“My mentee has said to me that having that welcome and contact with people living here has made him feel like the UK is his home…. It’s been very rewarding to be able to provide that welcome and make a difference where I can.” Volunteer mentor in Peterborough.
How to contact
Where to go
Available across Peterborough
UK
What to expect
As a volunteer mentor you will be matched with a young refugee who you will meet for one hour-long mentoring session per week in a local library or other community space. You will help them with their homework and English language skills, and provide wellbeing support. Find out more about what the role involves by visiting their website.
Anyone of any age or professional background can volunteer as a mentor with REUK. You don’t need to have any previous experience, although those with experience of teaching or working with young people or refugees would be especially welcome. The charity ask for at least 6 months commitment from mentors. You would ideally be able to meet your mentee within working hours – meeting them at 5:30pm at the latest.
Having one-to-one support can help young refugees to move forward in their education, develop their life skills and confidence, and help them feel more connected to the local community.
More information
Prospective mentors should fill in the application form on the REUK website or email [email protected] for more information. After applying they will be invited for an informal interview. Successful applicants will receive two hours of training covering information about immigration and ESOL, as well as best practice for mentors. They must complete a DBS check before they can start working with young people.
Volunteering as an educational mentor is free.
How to contact
Where to go
Available across Peterborough
UK
