Time4Me mentees were given a boost recently when special packs were delivered to them to keep their spirits up during the lockdown.
The packs included a fun and relaxing activity book, coloured pencils, a pack of ‘Keep Calm and Stress Less’ cards and a plant, were delivered to 17 Forth Valley College students who are aged between 15-26 year old and who may be care experienced, young carers or reside in regeneration areas.
The gesture was initiated by Sarah Tervit FVC’s Mentor Coordinator, and was an extension of the Care Packs supplied to mentees during Christmas and Easter, as it is often the case that the longest holidays – for most of our mentees who face additional challenges at home – are the hardest for them. So it was felt that a gesture such as this during the current situation, would really help.
Sarah, who also delivered laptops to five mentees to aid their online learning, said: “As we all struggle to navigate the current circumstances, Time4Me acknowledges that for some of our Mentees, this lockdown has added more difficulties to what were already, extremely challenging circumstances. Throughout the College closure, Time4Me Mentors continue to provide weekly mentoring via phone or email, to provide a listening ear and supportive words.
“We delivered care packs as an addition to this support, hoping to remind our Mentees that are valued members of our Time4Me (and College) community and we are here to support their overall wellbeing.
“We have had many messages of thanks – people commented on the day how lovely and thoughtful it was. They also really appreciated the doorstep visit from myself, albeit following social distancing guidelines at all times!”
Time4Me recently secured further £149,000 of funding from The Robertson Trust to continue its good work and they are now looking for 20 more staff volunteers to get involved as Mentors.
The project originally received a £143,000 donation from The Robertson Trust and trains existing staff members to become volunteer mentors, while reflecting the College’s commitment to supporting young people who face challenging circumstances, helping them make a successful and sustained transition into college life.
Mentors help the mentees with goal setting, problem solving and communication and the young people taking part will gain confidence and develop skills which will help them with their studies, career and life goals.