Volunteer youth mentoring programmes
How you can help support young people in Birmingham as a Volunteer Mentor.
Birmingham City University (BCU) has teamed up with Barnardo’s, Liminal Education, and Our Place Support to deliver the ‘Pathway to Potential’ programme for 14–18-year-olds who are homeless, looked after by their local authority, or not in mainstream education.
This service is funded by the Office for Students as part of their Equality in Higher Education fund until April 2027.
This programme gives BCU students and graduates the opportunity to volunteer as a Youth Mentor, giving you valuable work experience while making a difference in a young person’s life.
You will receive CPD accredited mentor training and safeguarding training, as well as a certificate to demonstrate your commitment.
What is required of a Pathway to Potential Youth Mentor?
We are looking for individuals who:
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Are passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people
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Have strong communication and active listening skills
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Able to be punctual and reliable
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Demonstrate empathy and patience
How do I become a Volunteer Youth Mentor?
To find out the full details of this programme and the application process, please complete the expression of interest form below.
Hear from our Youth Mentors:
“This mentoring programme has been an experience I’ve truly enjoyed, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been given the opportunity to be part of it. Being able to support young people and see the positive changes they’ve made has been both meaningful and fulfilling.”
“I’m proud that I can be someone who listens with patience and empathy, offering the kind of support that doesn’t always require fixing a problem - just being there. That, to me, is a core part of what it means to be a mentor.”
“This experience has absolutely enhanced my employability. It has given me practical experience, sharpened my interpersonal skills, and demonstrated my commitment to making a difference.”
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.
