CXK has launched a new peer mentoring programme in Kent and Medway aimed at supporting young people with additional needs to improve their skills and connect with other young people in their community. The project has been funded to prioritise support for young people with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC).
The ‘Get Connected’ programme matches the young people with a trained mentor, and together they take part in structured activities based in and around Maidstone, Dartford, and Gravesham. The mentors accompany mentees to an activity of their choosing for up to 20 weeks, helping the mentee to build confidence, increase personal/social skills and connect with their community.
The programme also provides the opportunity for 16–19-year-olds living in Kent and Medway to apply as a mentor. Successful applicants receive training from CXK and work alongside other mentors in providing support to mentees. The opportunity enables the mentoring young person to develop leadership skills and build valuable volunteering experience.
Serece Boxall-Roye, Coordinator for Get Connected, says: “We are currently recruiting mentors and would love to encourage any 16–19-year-olds who are looking to support other young people with additional needs whilst building some valuable experience for their CV to get in touch with us.
“Any young person with additional needs is also encouraged to apply to join the programme. An application can either be made by the young person themselves, or their parent/carer, via our website.”
For further information and details of how to apply as a Get Connected mentor or mentee, visit: www.cxk.org/services/get-connected, email getconnected@cxk.org, or call 01233 224244.