Begin with their strengths.
Mentoring can provide another trusted adult who listens and helps a young person explore what matters to them. An Asset-Based approach recognises potential alongside the difficulties a family wants to address.
Ask the right questions.
How are mentors recruited and supported? How is a suitable match considered? What are the safeguarding arrangements, goals and review points? A clear structure matters as much as warmth and encouragement.
Remain part of the conversation.
Talk with your child about what mentoring could offer them. Share relevant feedback with the team and ask how progress will be discussed. Support should be shaped around your family, with realistic expectations rather than promises of a particular result.
From the ECNM journal
This reading edition adapts our published work. Explore the original article below.