Could you spare one hour a week? Become a volunteer mentor and help a young person thrive

Adults across the Scottish Borders are being encouraged to consider becoming volunteer mentors as MCR Pathways expands its award-winning mentoring programme across all secondary schools and college campuses in the region.

Delivered in partnership with Scottish Borders Council, Skills Development Scotland and Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Borders, the programme matches young people with trusted adult mentors who can provide encouragement, guidance and consistent support.

For many young people, having just one reliable adult who listens, believes in them and helps them recognise their strengths can make a lasting difference to their confidence, aspirations and future opportunities.

Supporting young people to find their way

MCR Pathways is a national charity with a simple but powerful mission: to connect every young person who needs support with a trusted adult mentor.

The organisation believes no young person should be held back by their circumstances. Through the power of regular, supportive relationships, MCR Pathways helps young people build confidence, discover their potential and develop a clearer sense of direction for the future.

Mentors are not expected to provide professional advice or specialist support. Instead, they offer something equally valuable – their time, encouragement and belief in a young person’s abilities.

By meeting for around one hour each week, mentors can help young people:

• Build self-confidence and resilience
• Recognise their strengths and talents
• Develop aspirations and ambition
• Broaden their horizons and perspectives
• Navigate challenges and opportunities
• Feel heard, valued and supported

No experience required

One of the most common misconceptions about mentoring is that volunteers need specialist qualifications or previous experience. In reality, MCR Pathways is looking for ordinary people from all walks of life who are willing to commit time, listen and offer encouragement.

Successful mentors often share qualities such as:

• Being a good listener
• Showing patience and understanding
• Having compassion for others
• Being solution-focused and positive
• Drawing on their own life experiences
• Wanting to make a difference in their local community

MCR Pathways provides comprehensive support throughout the journey, including training, safeguarding guidance, PVG checks and ongoing mentoring support.

Making a difference for young people – and for yourself

While the impact on young people can be transformational, mentoring can also be a highly rewarding experience for volunteers.

Many mentors report increased confidence, stronger communication skills and the satisfaction that comes from helping someone else realise their potential. It can also be an opportunity to develop new relationships, gain fresh perspectives and become more connected to the local community.

Every mentoring relationship is unique, often built around shared interests, experiences and conversations that help a young person feel supported as they work towards their goals.

What is involved?

Getting started as a volunteer mentor is straightforward, with support available at every stage.

1. Register online through the mentor application form
2. Attend an informal interview
3. Complete a PVG check and provide two references
4. Take part in mentor training, available online or in person
5. Complete safeguarding and child protection training
6. Be matched with a young person

The commitment is just one hour each week, but the impact could last a lifetime.

Find out more

Local residents interested in becoming a volunteer mentor can learn more and register their interest by visiting the MCR Pathways website.

Anyone with questions about the programme in the Scottish Borders can contact the local MCR Pathways team by emailing [email protected].

One hour a week. One young person. A stronger community.