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.
We’re thrilled to welcome the latest additions to our team, Tabitha, Papaya and Josiah, our Graduate Interns, and Helen, the latest member of our cookery team. We can’t wait for them to showcase their experience, expertise and enthusiasm! Let’s get to know them a little better…
“Before this group, I felt like a nobody. Now I feel like somebody.” This was the answer 8-year-old Evie gave when asked about the difference our Activity-Based Mentoring Group had made for her. This sums up for us why we do what we do. Everyone deserves to know that they matter, whatever their circumstances and challenges.
We are immensely grateful to everyone who has contributed to our slow cooker appeal.
What a great term it has been at FFL! We have been busy delivering our various groups and programmes around Leeds. Our families have loved coming along to the groups and have benefitted hugely from the activities and support from the FFL team.