BLOCKS - Greater Manchester Violence Reduction Unit

Blocks is a 1-1 mentoring programme delivered by Salford Foundation for 8–11-year-olds to gain all the tools they need to transition into high school effectively.

How does it work?

Mentors are based in local school communities to give children the opportunity to see their mentor regularly. These sessions provide time to work on subjects such as confidence, self-esteem, manage difficult emotions, healthy relationships, coping strategies and planning for their future at high school.

Blocks aims to build up a positive and trusted space with a dedicated mentor that will give them regular time to learn and develop new skills that will help them in their everyday life. It runs for the duration of the whole school academic year, with support also being available in school holidays.

This would consist of sessions in local communities and positive activities to support the program in giving opportunities to use the skills children are being taught in their sessions.

Blocks is commissioned by Greater Manchester Combined Authority in partnership with Salford Foundation.

Blocks impact so far

“The level of (behaviour-related) incidents with these children has reduced” – Primary School Assistant Headteacher
141 children have been referred to the Blocks programme so far.
The BLOCKS programme significantly improves children’s emotional wellbeing, resilience, and behaviour. – Evaluation Report
“All bar one pupil have progressed to high school without the need for further referrals or support.” – Primary School Assistant Headteacher

Blocks is a 1-1 mentoring programme delivered by Salford Foundation for 8–11-year-olds to gain all the tools they need to transition into high school effectively.

Blocks impact so far

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