SAMS

Sussex Adolescent Mentoring Service

The aim of the Sussex Adolescent Mentoring Service is to provide a mentoring programme that will enable the young people taking part to develop their self-esteem and resilience to their full potential. Through this programme they will enhance their life chances and opportunities by building confidence and raising aspirations.

Key Points

This project will provide site based supervised mentoring at an agreed set location. Participants will be at key stages 9, 10 and 11 and they will present with one or more of the following characteristics: Be victims of crime, bullying or harassment: Be at risk: Have low self-esteem or are unable to fit in with peer group.

The young people involved will be matched with a mentor who can help guide them in developing self esteem, Improved interpersonal skills, raised confidence, building resilience and have a clearer focus for the future.

What is Mentoring?

Mentoring helps young people to make the most of their life opportunities. Some children and adolescents, through no fault of their own, need support and guidance from trusted and positive adults to help them meet the challenges of growing up.

The Mentor’s Role

Mentors lend long term support to youngsters that will benefit from a period of stable and regular positive influence.

Through a trusted friendship, a child will be able to explore their world and potential.

Become a Mentor for SAMS

SAMS volunteer mentors are ordinary people making a positive difference in a young person’s life.

You don’t need any previous experience working with young people to become a mentor. SAMS will provide training and support throughout the mentoring programme. The basic requirements for SAMS mentors are that you are kind and friendly, accept the young person as they are and most importantly you are committed to their progress. You like to encourage the young person to find their own solutions with advice and guidance, sharing life experiences with a positive attitude and know when to listen.

The Application Process

We ask for SAMS volunteer members to be committed throughout the six-month programme. The recruitment process is rigorous to ensure the safety of the young people we support. We also assess whether this is the right volunteering opportunity at the right time for you. We look for mentors who are positive people who share their experiences and interests with the young person they mentor. SAMS volunteer mentors receive training and ongoing support throughout the programme.