Mental Health

About 25% of the entire population will experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives.

People with mental health needs have little opportunity for social contact beyond professional care givers and others with similar problems, so the befriending & mentoring service provided by Guideposts are especially important.

Learning Disabilities

People with learning disabilities within the community are benefiting from the befriending & mentoring service provided by Guideposts.

As well as creating long-term friendship it gives people with learning disabilities increased self-confidence, greater independence and a wider social network.

How it works...

The service user is referred onto the service, after this the coordinator meets with the service user to discuss needs, wishes and availability of volunteer Mentors. When a suitable volunteer mentor becomes available the coordinator arranges an informal meeting with both parties. We also offer various educational, fun interactive workshops and social activities.

What happens next...

Interests, suitable days, times and limitations are discussed and by the end of the meeting a date is set for the first 'get together'. After the 'get together' the coordinator contacts both the service user and volunteer mentor to gain feedback on how they thought the meeting went. After 1 month the coordinator will arrange a review meeting to discuss how the action plan is working and from then on a review will take place on a regular basis.

Why use volunteers and what's in it for them...

Volunteer mentors are essential in building links with our service users. They bring in fresh ideas and enthusiasm plus retain a neutrality between service users and staff. Volunteer mentors also help to build links with the local community. Most of our service users appreciate the help of a person who expects nothing in return.

Guideposts volunteer mentors along with the service users they work with will have a person centered action plan to work from and achieve set goals and targets.

They also get to take part in enjoyable activities as well as gaining new experiences and skills, while getting more involved in their local community. Full training is given in a variety of areas. We are also offering the opportunity to have support and encouragement in moving into paid employment with the guidance of the service coordinator.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Please contact:

Jo Hancox

Guideposts Trust

44-45 Church Street

Nuneaton

Warwickshire

CV11 4AD

Telephone: 02476 385 888