Mentoring
YourStory Prolific and Persistent Offenders Mentoring Scheme
We have been working with Southwark’s Prolific and Persistent Offenders Team (PPO) since April 2006. During this time we have worked with approximately 17 clients. These clients are amongst the top 25 most challenging, persistent offenders within Southwark.
Prolific criminal activity is connected to a variety of issues ranging from drug dependency, illiteracy and innumeracy, inappropriate housing, homelessness, family issues, negative peer groups and boredom.
Male and female YourStory mentors have a wealth of experience working with the most challenging and diverse client groups. Clients are matched with a mentor according to the specific needs of the client.
YourStory mentors often use their life experience to assist building the initial relationship with the client and as a natural 3rd party partner we can create trust and understanding on a higher level than other agencies, whilst maintaining strict professional and ethical boundaries.
We challenge the client on all levels, using values based coaching techniques that look into the future. The client has a series of goals, which they set for themselves. This helps to create focus and a sense of personal responsibility for the impact of their actions and non-actions.
Bursaries are available for training courses, clothing and equipment towards employment. Our aim is to support the client and assist them to have greater control over the destiny of their life. Mentoring re-enforces the roles and responsibilities of citizenship and values, whilst exploring all possible life paths to maintain a positive and safe future for all.
Identifying interests the client enjoys is often incorporated into the mentoring process. Clients are eligible to receive free weekly gym passes or go boxing at Fitzroy Lodge, whilst some clients prefer going to the cinema, art galleries or other similar activities.
YourMentoring Programme is currently being evaluated by Dr David Cowan (London South Bank University) and YourStory Mentoring Programmes were featured in Community Care magazine for best and innovative practice (August 2006).