Charity seeks large number of volunteers to mentor youngsters

Published by The Daily Record – on behalf of Lanarkshire Live

Written by Emylie Howie

A mentoring charity is appealing for volunteers in South Lanarkshire.

MCR Pathways is looking for 150 more mentors to sign up and support the Young Scottish Talent programme in South Lanarkshire.

For just one hour per week, for a minimum of one year, volunteers can help young people build confidence, overcome challenges, focus on their education and a positive future.

South Lanarkshire Council and MCR Pathways provide the life-changing programme in six schools – three of which are in Rutherglen and Cambuslang: Trinity High, Stonleaw High and Cathkin High.

Tracy McGlinchey, programme manager of MCR Pathways, said: “We are delighted at the impact mentoring is making in South Lanarkshire.

“Despite the challenges of the last year, our mentors give consistent, reliable support simply by being there for their young person. When meetings couldn’t take place in school, mentors and our young people have been fantastic in adapting to video calls or emails to keep in touch.

“There are many heart-warming stories of resilience. Now, we are determined to reach more young people that need a mentor.

“The impact of the pandemic has deeply affected these students, many of whom may face other disadvantages and, now more than ever, we want to ensure that everyone has the chance to succeed.

“But on top of that, mentoring is a fun and rewarding way for people to give back.

“Our existing volunteers are from all walks of life; anyone can be a mentor – you just need an hour a week and the desire to help make a difference. We’d love to hear from the local community who have lots to offer our young people.”

Allison Craig, depute head teacher at Trinity High School, said: “We have been involved in the MCR Programme since it was introduced three years ago.

“The programme complements perfectly our profile as a nurturing school, emphasising the balance between care and challenge, wellbeing and relationships, high expectations and a focus on achievement and attainment.

“The programme has had such a positive impact on the lives of our young people. Mentors can give our young people that extra bit of confidence, suggest possibilities, create opportunities to enhance their life chances.

“It is fantastic to witness our young people who find it difficult to build relationships really looking forward to their mentors visit, and for those pupils who have now left Trinity enter a positive destination which may not have been possible without them.”

For more information in becoming a mentor, head here or contact here.

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