The Anxiety UK Mentoring Programme aims to support those who are struggling to cope with their anxiety, which may be affecting their social and working life. Mentors are there to support their mentees, help them feel more comfortable with social situations and guide them on the journey back into their community, employment, volunteering or further education.
How do I become a mentor?
The Mentoring Programme is currently only available in the Manchester area and open to those who have personally experienced an anxiety disorder. If you are based in Manchester and would like to become a mentor you can apply by completing the application form at the bottom of this page or by emailing the Mentoring Coordinator for an application form at mentoring@anxietyuk.org.uk
Do I receive training for my mentor role?
Yes. Anxiety UK Mentoring Training is the first step. Combined with this, you will also receive training about Anxiety UK , how to deal with difficult situations and goal directed techniques to support people to move forward in their lives. This training will be completed over 4 full days and will equip you with the knowledge and skills to reassure and guide your mentee on the difficult process accessing their community or work. The training will also help you develop skills to communicate appropriately and develop awareness of boundaries and confidentiality. You will be notified by email of the dates and times when training is available. You will also receive on-going training and support from the Mentoring Coordinator.
What happens once I have applied?
There will be an interview and screening process for both mentors and mentees. You will need to complete a CRB check (paid for by Anxiety UK) and provide 2 character referees. You will then be matched with a mentee and we will inform you of their contact details by email.
How do you match mentors with mentees?
We will attempt to match mentees with mentors who have similar experiences or background. Once we have found a suitable mentee, we will email their details to you. An initial meeting will be arranged, where other mentors and mentees will also meet for the first time. It will then be your responsibility to arrange on-going meetings with your mentee.
Your first meeting
At your first meeting, you will introduce yourself informally and establish what support your mentee requires. You will be required to both sign a Confidentiality Agreement and arrange when further meetings will take place.
How long will our 1:1 meetings last?
We would expect you to meet weekly or fortnightly for approximately 30 – 60 minutes.
Do I need to record my meetings?
Yes. You will be given a ‘Mentoring Handbook’ to monitor and record the progress of your mentee. The handbook includes targets and achievements that you can set with your mentee, advice on seeking further employment and training and a section for your mentee to monitor their anxiety.
What type of support will I receive as a mentor?
The Mentoring Coordinator can offer 1:1 support and guidance and is available Monday to Friday, 9.30am -5.30pm
What if I don”t get on with my mentee?
If you wish to change your mentee or you wish to discontinue, you must inform the Mentoring Coordinator. This is so your mentee can still get support elsewhere.
What can I gain from the experience?
You will develop interpersonal, communication and team-working skills. Mentoring also helps to develop your own self confidence and looks great on your CV. Becoming a mentor is a chance to make a difference to someone else.
If you wish to apply please read and complete the below forms and return to mentoring@anxietyuk.org.uk
Equal opportunities monitoring form
If you have any problems downloading or completing the forms please contact Liz Thompson on 0161 226 7727 or email mentoring@anxietyuk.org.uk.
