Young people at risk of serious violence or criminal exploitation are benefitting from a mentoring service helping them to build positive relationships and set future goals.

Often displaying aggression and violent tendencies toward peers and teachers, Alex* struggled in school.

He was referred to Salford Foundation’s STEER service, which aims to increase resilience and motivation and reduce risk taking behaviours amongst young people by providing one-on-one mentoring support.

After an initial introduction, Alex agreed to weekly sessions with his case worker, Tara, where they looked at goal setting.

Alex wanted to improve his behaviour at school but needed support around how to manage his anger. Together, Alex and his case worker discussed how his previous poor behaviour may have negatively impacted those around him.

They put together a step-by-step plan, which included breathing techniques and warning signs. As well as practising these techniques during every session, Alex and his case worker haves started focusing on who his trusted adults are.

Over time, Alex shared that his circle of trust had increased and that he felt positive about the relationships he had with his peers, teachers and family members.

As a result of this change in outlook, Alex was feeling optimistic about the summer holidays and his life outside of school, stating he was looking forward to positive activities like visiting the Trafford Centre and other places.

Speaking about the sessions, Tara said: “Alex has been great to work with for the last 3 months. Each week his engagement with myself in the sessions has improved and he would open up more. We have looked at a range of interventions such as goal setting, self-belief and particularly a lot around anger. Now it is the summertime Alex is sharing more with me than he ever did in school, which I am glad to give him the space to talk about things going on at home.”

Salford Foundation has been helping people in Salford and beyond for over 30 years. The charity provides opportunities for local communities by fostering positive outreach projects, based on their six core values:

• Welcoming
• Leading by example
• Working together
• Professional and responsible
• Proud and passionate
• Proactive and dynamic

Jack Ward, Project Manager at the Salford Foundation, said: “STEER started as mentoring support for Salford young people impacted by child criminal exploitation in 2017 and has since broadened its reach for any young person impacted by violence.

Having a partnership approach with the rest of the community agencies allows us to have a clearer understanding of the local issues young people are facing so we can work together to support them as best as possible.”

The Greater Manchester Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) has been supporting community organisations in their mission to tackle violence and anti-social behaviour since the VRU was created in 2019.

If you know a young person who would benefit from the support of STEER, please submit the STEER referral form to youthservices@salfordfoundation.org.uk

Article posted on: 07/08/2024 02:08pm