Youth Support Mentor

Responsibilities

• Build trusting and positive relationships with young people, offering guidance, advice, and support.
• Assist young people in developing independent living skills, including budgeting, cooking, cleaning, and personal care.
• Provide emotional support, listening to young people’s concerns and helping them manage challenges.
• Encourage young people to make their own decisions and support them in taking responsibility for their actions; create opportunities for practicing skills in a safe and supportive environment.
• Monitor the safety and well‑being of young people, identifying and reporting any safeguarding concerns in line with policies and procedures; implement risk assessments and safety plans, ensuring the living environment is safe and supportive.
• Support young people with day‑to‑day tasks such as maintaining a clean and tidy living space and attending appointments.
• Facilitate access to education, training, and employment opportunities, providing practical assistance where necessary.
• Ensure all work practices comply with Ofsted regulations and organisational policies.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of care plans, reviewing progress and making adjustments as needed.
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records of interactions, incidents, and progress in accordance with organisational policies; prepare reports and contribute to regular reviews, ensuring young people’s views and achievements are clearly documented.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, managers, and external agencies to provide comprehensive support tailored to each young person’s needs; participate in team meetings, training, and supervision sessions to continuously improve service delivery.
• Adhere to policies on drugs, alcohol, behaviour management, and safeguarding, ensuring expectations and consequences are clearly communicated.
• Respect the privacy and dignity of young people, maintaining confidentiality at all times.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of young people, supporting them to have their voices heard in decisions that affect their lives; provide information on access to advocacy services and the local offer for care leavers.
• Model and encourage positive behaviour, setting clear boundaries and providing constructive feedback; support young people in managing conflicts and developing coping strategies.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Experience working with young people, preferably within a supported accommodation or similar setting.
• Understanding of the challenges faced by young people transitioning to independence.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust.
• Ability to manage challenging behaviour and respond calmly to crises.
• Knowledge of safeguarding principles and practices.
• Flexibility to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

• Qualifications in youth work, social care, or a related field (QCF Level 3 or higher, or working toward/commitment to completing).
• Knowledge of Ofsted regulations and standards for supported accommodation.
• First Aid, Mental Health First Aid, or similar certifications.

Key Competencies

• Empathy and Patience
• Professionalism and Integrity
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Problem‑Solving Skills
• Resilience and Adaptability

Compensation

• £13.30 per hour
• Sleep‑In allowance – £50

All candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and reference checks. Spectrum Children and Young People’s Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people.

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