EMMA'S STORY

Why I'm a New Bridge mentor

I have been mentoring now for around 18 months. Most of my work is at HMYOI Thorn Cross, Warrington.

When I embarked on the mentoring training course, I didn’t really know what to expect. Over the three days I met a group of diverse and interesting people from all walks of life. Although the training was intense, it was enjoyable and made me appreciate how lucky I am. Things like domestic abuse, sexual abuse, alcohol and drug abuse are things I was lucky enough never to experience – but to think that I could soon be working with young people who had experienced terrible things was extremely humbling.

Everyone’s nervous when they get ‘matched’ for the first time – I was terrified, I didn’t know what to expect. Sure enough my first encounter of mentoring was a challenge – the stroppy, sulky, “I don’t want to talk to you” teenager – GREAT! But after a few sessions, we began to gel.

Talking to the lads about stuff they’re into helps like football, music, their mates and so on helps to break the ice. It is important to be reliable and not let someone down. They might seem like they don’t want you there but let me tell you if you miss an appointment those lads know!

I have thoroughly enjoyed mentoring, still do! I have experienced all sorts of individuals; cheeky, arrogant, shy, sulky, ‘jack-the-lad’, you name it but its fun and rewarding. It’s a great feeling to know that you may have helped someone in some way.

It is important to establish boundaries and don’t be a pushover – but all that aside I am grateful to have been able to participate in the project as I genuinely believe that I have not only grown as a person but have helped young people in some way.

Mentoring is a truly challenging, yet truly rewarding experience.