Published by Daily Record
Written by James Moncur
The highly acclaimed scheme sees care-experienced youngsters getting support in secondaries across the city.
A highly regarded mentoring programme is being introduced to secondary schools across Dundee.
The scheme has been described as ‘ life changing ’ for many of the ‘care-experienced’ youngsters it has already supported across Scotland.
The city council has teamed up with award-winning charity MCR Pathways to provide the programme.
The youngsters will be introduced to the Young Dundee Talent programme in their schools.
MCR Pathways coordinators have already taken up posts to launch the programme in Baldragon Academy, Braeview Academy, Craigie High School, Harris Academy, Morgan Academy and St Paul’s RC Academy. St John’s RC High School, Grove Academy and additional schools will follow soon.
They’ll be matched with a volunteer mentor to help them build confidence, overcome challenges and focus on a positive future.
Fay Gingell, CEO of MCR Pathways, said: “MCR mentoring is not just making a significant impact on educational outcomes for Scotland’s young people, but also to their confidence and wellbeing, so we are really excited to begin working in Dundee.
“We are already looking for mentors who can commit their time to help a young person.”
“Our volunteers come from all walks of life; anyone can be a mentor, they just need an hour a week and the desire to make a difference.”
“We’d also love to hear from local employers who would like to support staff to get involved. Mentors and their employers gain massively from the experience for relatively little time commitment.”
While Councillor Stewart Hunter said: “This is an exciting development and I am sure it will have many benefits for care-experienced young people across Dundee.”
“I would encourage anyone who wants to become a mentor to get in touch as soon as possible.”
“Their guidance and help will make a really positive impact on the life of a young person.”
Established in Glasgow in 2007, MCR Pathways currently provides support to over 4,000 young people throughout Scotland each week, and the programme has recently expanded into a total of 16 local authorities.
