December 6th -
The mentoring projects at Flourishing Families have continued to develop and grow this term- we now have a bigger team of volunteers than ever before, with 20 student mentors helping with sessions on a weekly basis. This means that all of our activities-based mentoring groups are incredibly well-supported, with a team of 4 to 5 mentors per group of 10 children.
The high adult-child ratio enables us to work closely alongside each child, lending a hand with the artwork, keeping a watchful eye on individual development, and providing a listening ear throughout the session. We have already begun to see some very encouraging change in the children in our groups, with one child saying ‘I wish we could have boys’ group every day!’
Earlier in the term, Flourishing Families ran our annual training evening for volunteers who work with children and families. On the agenda this year was: ‘Why Mentor?’ , ‘Top Tips for engaging Families and Children’, and ‘Safe-guarding and Child Protection: What You Need to Know.’
Part of the training was delivered by one of the Bramley’s lead learning mentors, who has a wealth of experience supporting families of all backgrounds and a real heart for seeing childrens’ lives transformed through mentoring. It was great to see the whole cohort of mentors come together under a shared vision to support and benefit children across Leeds.
Earlier this month we had the privilege of hosting the Chancellor of the Exchequer and Member of Parliament for Leeds West and Pudsey, Rachel Reeves, at a showcase of the work we do to empower families.
“You saved Christmas for us,” Gemima said as we handed over four gift-packed stockings for her kids and three large bags of food.
We were thrilled and honoured to receive this prestigious award as part of HM The King’s Birthday Honours in November last year.