Volunteer Challenges Others To Act

Allan Roberts, a volunteer at Mentor Link, says “schools are warned about the problem, but many bullying cases slip through – and these kids suffer from low self-esteem and low ambition, falling behind at school as a direct result.”

Mentor Link is a charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable and distressed young people by providing them with a volunteer mentor. Fully trained adults offer listening support and guidance during difficult times. Roberts says his life was changed by a mentor at a crucial juncture in young adulthood. He began volunteering with Mentor Link to give back, aiming to “transform vulnerable students into high achievers so they can reach their true potential”.

In 2019, Mentor Link mentored 453 children and young people. The results of the long term social and emotional support were overwhelmingly positive – 89% of the mentees showed higher confidence and self-esteem, with 72% improving in academic performance. Mentor Link offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for interested citizens who want to be part of a mission to help young people feel valued and supported.

For Roberts, expanding mentoring programs is an important step to help disadvantaged students rise above bullies and believe in themselves. “It is the responsibility of the current generation to take action and stop the struggle for young people – and Mentor Link is a wonderful conduit for that.” He encourages other adults to becomes volunteer mentors, saying, resolutely, “The power of mentoring can literally change the course of history.”