Grandmentors help young people leaving care get on in life. Our award-winning Grandmentors programme transforms the lives of young people through the emotional and practical support of our older, world-wise volunteers.

Every year, approximately 10,000 sixteen to eighteen-year-olds leave foster or residential care in England. Far too many do not go on to higher education or employment. All too often, they are deprived of support and opportunity. 82% of the care leavers supported by Grandmentors are in education, employment or training after six months, compared to just 51% nationally.

Grandmentors provide a vital link for young people as they navigate life after care. Our Grandmentors come from a wide range of backgrounds and all walks of life. This enables them to understand and meet the range of needs of their mentees. Our trained volunteers, aged 50 and over, forge trusting and positive relationships that support, challenge and empower mentees to unlock their own skills and to shape their own futures.

We have Grandmentors projects running across ten local authorities and have had 500 successful matches since the programme’s launch.

We provide training, ongoing support and expenses for Grandmentors. You don’t need any special skills or qualifications to be a Grandmentor. You just need some life experiences and a willingness to support someone who needs a bit of help

VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS
– Aged 50+ (will consider slightly younger).
– Good communication skills and patience.
– DBS (criminal record) check will be performed.
– Long-term commitment required (min. around one year).
– Resident in Southend or the surrounding area.