Volunteer Mentor

What is the Volunteer Mentor Service?

We train and support volunteer mentors to work with offenders during their period of rehabilitation. This service aims to improve personal outcomes for individuals and those close to them. The service contributes positively to the wider community – by reduced risk of re-offending, improved community safety and fewer instances of anti-social behaviour.

What do Volunteer Mentors do?

• Provide one-to-one support to offenders from a range of backgrounds and circumstances
• Act as positive role models, help raise the individual’s confidence and self-esteem, and support them in identifying and achieving realistic goals and aspirations
• Meet with offenders, usually weekly, at a Probation Office, Open Road Centre or in a community setting, helping them to re-integrate into society
• Accompany offenders to appointments if needed - the GP, Dentist, Jobcentre Plus, training and educational courses and maybe even job interviews

What skills are we looking for in a volunteer?

• Relate to the issues and challenges faced by service users
• Respect and understand the need for confidentiality
• Be an effective communicator & demonstrate good interpersonal and listening skills
• Identify and understand risk situations
• Be willing to undertake training and continuing development
• Be committed to the agreed hours allocated for the volunteer role

Where can I be a Volunteer Mentor?

Locations across Suffolk and Norfolk

How much time do Volunteer Mentors need to give?

A minimum of ½ day (or evening); up to a maximum of 3 days per week.