FAQ

What support do mentors receive?

You’ll have an initial chat with the Project Co-ordinator, who will explain the project and how it works, as well as get to know you and your interests. Then you’ll receive training in mentoring skills and mental health awareness, which will equip you with the confidence and knowledge you need before you are matched with your mentee.

The Project Co-ordinator will be on hand to support and guide you through the mentoring relationship – and there will be opportunities to get together with other mentors and mentees to share experiences and receive further training.

How do I get matched?

The Project Co-ordinator will ask you about your interests, where you live and what you expect from the project. When they’ve found a good match, they’ll discuss it with you before arranging your first meeting. 

Do I need a criminal record check?

Yes. You will be spending time with a vulnerable young person under the age of 18 and therefore you will need to have a Criminal Records Bureau check. This is free of charge and will be completed with the Project Co-ordinator.  All mentees undergo a risk assessment before starting the mentoring programme to ensure our volunteers’ safety and well-being.

I would like to become a mentor!

That’s great news.

We’ve had a phenomenal response from volunteers wanting to become a mentor for The Switch. This is great news and we’ve been so pleased with the positive response. To cope with the demand we have set up a waiting list for potential mentors. Therefore if you are interested in volunteering for The Switch and are happy to wait till after September to start your volunteering process, then please email the Project Co-ordinator Becky Mumford at becky@timebank.org.uk and ask to be added to the waiting list.