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Positive role models are important to a child or young person's development. For some tamariki, events or circumstances out of their control can make them more vulnerable to negative influences. That's when a mentor outside usual family networks can be of enormous help.

Family Works mentors provide positive, one-to-one attention for children and young people aged 8-15. They are trained and screened volunteers who receive regular supervision.

Mentors and mentees are matched according to their interests and to the needs of the child or young person. They meet weekly to engage in activities that they both enjoy - going to the park, playing games, cooking, crafts, fishing and other outdoor activities.

How we help

Tamariki and young people who work with a mentor will develop:

Improved self esteem and self confidence

Increased awareness about the wider world and the opportunities open to them

Increased motivation

Improved decision making (making better choices)

Stronger, more stable friendships

Who is eligible

Eligibility criteria differ depending on where the child lives. We offer this service in Christchurch/Ōtautahi and Marlborough/Waiharakeke.

 

Any person who is interested in becoming a mentor must have:

  • A clean full drivers licence
  • Warranted and Registered vehicle


We also ask that you could please:

  • Be available for at least 1 year commitment 
  • Be available for 1-3 hours per week
  • Be available for monthly supervision
  • Have good English skills
     

The mentees are usually aged between 8-15 years old.

 

This service for mentees is only available for children of an existing PSUSI service via in-house referrals.

If you are interested in becoming a mentor, you can contact Ange directly on angelaa@psusi.org.nz for Christchurch/Ōtautahi, or nelson@psusi.org.nz for Marlborough/Waiharakeke.

 

Where to start

If you would like to become a mentor or you want to find out more about mentoring for your child please contact us and we'll be happy to help.

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