Children's charity in appeal for help
A children's charity which has helped hundreds of children and young people has launched an urgent appeal for more volunteers.
Mentor Link, based in Stourport, helps support and encourage vulnerable youngsters.
Volunteers talk through issues such as bullying, family breakdown or low self-confidence.
They also listen to students read and help them in their learning as well as support those who have suffered traumatic bereavement.
During the past year the charity has helped 447 children and young people.
Some 69 per cent of children mentored were reported to have improved self-esteem and 67 per cent had improved relationships with friends, family and others.
A further 48 per cent reported improved school engagement.
Andrea Maddocks, chief executive officer of the charity, said: "Mentor Link provides one to one social and emotional support to vulnerable and distressed children and young people by professionally recruiting and training volunteer mentors to listen to and support them each week with the aim of improving their well-being and development.
"We need help to raise awareness and funding.
"In the Wyre Forest district we have helped 183 children last year and have been funded by the Big Lottery but this financial help will reduce over the next three years and we will need people to help with community events to raise funds.
"The charity was set up 12 years ago and demand for its services are growing and have increased each year.
"We work with schools, parents, and agencies such as early help groups and social services.
"In the Wyre Forest we have 91 volunteer workers and 226 across the West Midlands.
"However, we have only five supporters and need more parents and businesses to help raise funds and awareness of the work done by the charity."
Among the schools backing Mentor Link is Baxter College. In a testimonial, principal Dave Seddon OBE said: "Having worked closely with Mentor link, I can wholeheartedly support their involvement in schools.
"I have been impressed by their organization, reliability and integrity but also for the inspirational way they can motivate children. They have certainly made a difference to the lives of our most vulnerable children and I know our staff value the support the mentors give us. I recommend them without reservation."
Anyone interested in being a volunteer or supporter is being asked to call 01299 822336.
No qualifications are necessary, but anyone interested must be a good listener, patient, non-judgmental and ideally be available to volunteer for six months.
Training is provided, free of charge, courtesy of Mentor Link and each volunteer will be supported by experienced staff.
All applications are subject to reference cheeks and enhanced CRB clearance.
Information is also available at www.mentorlink.org.uk
