Mentoring is one of the fastest growing areas of volunteering in the criminal justice field. Mentoring is tailored to the situation in which it is taking place and can consist of a number of different elements. Having said that, there are certain things that are part of all mentoring situations, so it is safe to say that mentoring is one person helping another to make a significant change in their lives by way of support, assistance and advocacy. It is the free exchange of life experience, in an attempt to broaden horizons and foster development.

WHAT?

The lack of appropriate adult role models is seen to be one of the factors influencing the majority of young people coming in to contact with the youth justice system. Mentors can fulfil this role, showing offenders an example of positive, acceptable behaviour, which benefits society. A mentoring situation can make the difference between positive integration or unacceptable behaviour patterns and subsequent alienation. Mentoring is one of the options available for consideration within the referral order for young offenders.

WHO?

Mentoring is not an unskilled task. There are a number of ground rules and issues that need to be thoroughly understood before any mentoring relationship can be instigated. Mentors need insight to identify an individual's specific needs as well as some skills in counselling, communication and, often, negotiation. However, you will receive training appropriate to the situation in which you will be mentoring and then, when you are ready, you will be matched with a mentee.

HOW?

Firstly you must decide whether you wish to work with adults or young people and in what setting, in custody or in the community, either prior to, or post sentence. You will need to contact either your local Probation Service or YOT. It maybe that they run their own mentoring services, however many of them have services provided for them by a voluntary sector provider such as SOVA or Crime Concern.

For further information check out contact details for SOVA, NACRO and others at the back of the pack. Alternatively you can contact the National Probation Service for more details (email npd.publicenquiry@homeoffice.gov.uk, or visit their website at www.homeoffice.gov.uk/cpg/nps/index.htm).