Denis Law Academy Mentoring Partnership Launches in Aberdeen
12 March 2026
MCR Pathways is proud to announce a new partnership with The Denis Law Academy in Aberdeen.
The partnership will enable more local young people to access trusted adult mentors, helping them overcome barriers and navigate the unique challenges they face on their journey toward brighter futures.
Bringing together two strongly aligned and deeply committed missions, this collaboration will harness the power of community and relationships to achieve meaningful, transformational impact on positive post-school destinations.
Volunteer mentors will support young people to build confidence, strengthen self-belief and find their voice. By laying these vital foundations, the partnership aims to improve school attendance, raise attainment and broaden aspiration.
Last year, MCR Pathways volunteer mentors supported 5,930 young people across Scotland. Research consistently shows that having a trusted adult who shows up regularly can be truly transformational.
The charity’s most recent survey found that:
- 99% said their mentor was a great role model.
- 96% said mentoring improved their confidence.
- 95% said it helped them with goal setting.
MCR Pathways welcomes mentors from all walks of life. Full training and ongoing support are provided, enabling volunteers to use their life experience and personal qualities to make a real difference — sparking potential and awakening ambition.
Gavin Jardine, Head of the North Region at MCR Pathways, said: “We’re delighted to have established a partnership with The Denis Law Academy to deliver an exciting new community-based, personalised mentoring service in Aberdeen. This approach offers improved access, greater flexibility and stronger local connections — ensuring more young people can benefit from consistent, trusted support.
“Our message to young people is simple: wherever you are, mentoring should be available to support you. A trusted adult mentor builds confidence, provides a listening ear, shares life experience and understands your worries and dreams — helping you move toward the fulfilling future you want.
“Having someone who shows up, listens without judgment and believes in you through life’s ups and downs can be the first step toward exciting change and new possibilities.”
Named in honour of one of Scotland’s greatest footballers and proud Aberdeen son, The Denis Law Academy is committed to nurturing ambition, resilience and achievement in every young person.
Jackie Dunbar MSP for Aberdeen Donside joined representatives from both charities at the formal launch, who said: “The Denis Law Legacy Trust and Robert Gordon University have done amazing work to support young people in Aberdeen, connecting with them through their programmes, and helping give them a wee push in the right direction. Teaming up with MCR Pathways, and the mentoring work they do, sounds like a perfect trinity working to build on the legacy of a member of Manchester United’s famous Trinity of Law, Charlton and Best.
“Denis Law got a helping hand from his community, not least from the neighbour who gave him his first pair of football boots. Just like Denis when he was growing up, there are thousands of young people in Aberdeen today who could benefit from a wee help, and this mentoring partnership will support just that.”
Mark Williams, Chief Operating Officer of Denis Law Legacy Trust, said: “This partnership represents a powerful step forward in our commitment to giving every young person the chance to thrive. By combining the strength of our work via the Denis Law Academy with MCR Pathways’ proven mentoring model, we can offer deeper, more personalised support to those who need it most.
“Every young person deserves someone who believes in them, and this collaboration ensures they have a trusted adult championing their potential, their confidence, and their future. We are incredibly proud to work alongside MCR Pathways to help more young people in Aberdeen find their path and realise what they are truly capable of.”
To find out more about becoming a volunteer mentor, visit: https://mcrpathways.org/become-a-mentor/
To learn more about becoming an education, community or corporate partner, visit: https://mcrpathways.org/support-us/
