Youth and Family Mentor – Gloucestershire

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Youth and Family Mentor to join our team in Gloucestershire. As a Youth and Family Mentor, you will play a pivotal role in supporting and guiding young individuals and their families towards positive growth and development. Your expertise and passion for empowering young people will enable you to build meaningful relationships and provide holistic support to navigate the challenges they face.

Responsibilities:

1. Mentoring and Guidance: Establish a trusting and supportive relationship with young individuals and their families. Provide one-on-one mentoring, offering guidance, active listening, and practical advice to help them overcome personal challenges and achieve their goals.
2. Personal and Emotional Support: Offer emotional support and a safe space for young people to express their feelings and concerns. Assist in building their self-confidence, resilience, and coping mechanisms to navigate various life situations.
3. Goal Setting and Planning: Collaborate with young individuals and their families to set achievable goals and create action plans. Help them identify their strengths and interests, develop life skills, and explore educational and career pathways.
4. Advocacy and Referrals: Advocate for the needs of young people and their families, liaising with relevant organisations and service providers. Identify and connect them to appropriate resources, such as mental health services, educational support, and community programs.
5. Family Engagement: Foster positive relationships with families, recognising the significant influence they have on the well-being of young individuals. Provide guidance and support to families, promoting effective communication, conflict resolution, and healthy dynamics.
6. Community Collaboration: Collaborate with community stakeholders, including schools, social services, and local organisations, to ensure a coordinated approach to supporting young people and their families. Attend meetings, contribute to case conferences, and participate in collaborative initiatives.

Requirements:

• Relevant Qualifications: Possess a degree or certification in Social Work, Youth Work, Psychology, Counselling, or a related field. Additional training in mentoring, family support, or relevant interventions is advantageous.
• Experience: Demonstrated experience working with young people and families, providing support, guidance, and mentorship. Familiarity with youth development, family dynamics, and community resources.
• Empathy and Active Listening: Show genuine empathy, compassion, and active listening skills when engaging with young people and their families. Create a non-judgmental and supportive environment where they feel heard and understood.
• Relationship Building: Build trusting relationships with young individuals and their families, establishing rapport and mutual respect. Display cultural sensitivity and adaptability to work effectively with diverse backgrounds.
• Problem-Solving and Resilience: Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and resilience when faced with challenges. Remain calm and composed in stressful situations, providing appropriate support and guidance.
• Organizational Skills: Manage a diverse caseload, prioritizing tasks and maintaining accurate documentation. Exhibit strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to meet deadlines.

As a Youth and Family Mentor, you have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of young individuals and their families in Gloucestershire. By providing guidance, support, and advocacy, you will empower them to overcome obstacles, build positive relationships, and achieve their full potential. If you are passionate about working with young people and families and are committed to making a difference in their lives, we invite you to join our team and contribute to our mission of fostering positive youth development and strong family connections.