Volunteer youth mentoring programmes

How you can help support young people in Birmingham as a Volunteer Mentor.

Youth talking with Barnardo's volunteer

Birmingham City University have partnered with Barnardo's, Our Place Support CIC, and Birmingham City Council, to offer students and graduates the opportunity to volunteer as a Peer Mentor.

This programme will provide you with real-life work experience whilst also making a difference in a young person's life.

Working with young people aged 16 to 25 that have the same lived experience as you to provide social, emotional, and mental health support. This service supports young people from three key groups:

those from ethnic minority background
those with a disability or long-term health condition
and those who identify as LGBT+

You will receive CPD accredited Peer Mentoring and Mental Health First Aider Training.

What is required of a Volunteer Peer Mentor?

The skills needed to be a Volunteer Peer Mentor include:

Reliability, punctuality, and trustworthiness
An approachable and welcoming demeanour
Passion about making a difference in the lives of young people
The ability to empathise with young people who are facing difficult times in their lives
Awareness of factors impacting on and issues facing young people such as disadvantage, poverty, disabilities, and health conditions including mental health.

How do I become a Volunteer Peer Mentor?

To find out the full details of this programme and to apply, please complete the expression of interest form below

Eligibility

Please note, it will be a requirement to provide two-character references from people who have known you for at least two years, and you will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

Eligibility

Please note, it will be a requirement to provide two-character references from people who have known you for at least two years, and Barnardo’s will support you to obtain a DBS check.