CSV Grandmentors
CSV Grandmentors is an innovative project harnessing the energy and experience of older volunteers (50+) to support young people to find work, stay on in education or take up training.
Many of the young people (age 16 to 25) we support don't have positive adult role models, others lack direction, some have been in trouble with the police and others have been homeless.
We work in Islington, Hackney and Camden.
What support do grandmentors receive?
- initial and on-going training
- individual support from the project manager
- regular group support from other mentors
- travel and out-of-pocket expenses
What does a grandmentor do?
A grandmentor:
- visits a young person regularly (once a week / fortnight)
- helps work towards goals
- builds relationships based on trust and mutual respect
- acts as a positive role model
Grandmentors have helped young people:
- find an apprenticeship
- get on a college course
- find work experience
- write application forms and CVs
- increase confidence & self-esteem
- try new things
- have fun
CSV grandmentors is funded for three years by the JECDA Foundation and is being researched by Manchester Metropolitan University.
