Minutes:
Speakerbox provided an update to the corporate parenting committee on key activities and priorities.
The focus was to empower young people and give them a voice and identify barriers in the system to this happening.
Education
The challenges of secondary school for young people and pressures of academic demands, against the possible instability in a home and care situation which may impact consistency and guidance throughout the various stages of education.
Quote from one of the young people “We don’t get a built-in map to help navigate these challenges.”
Mentorship
The importance of having someone within the school environment for the young person to understand their challenges and have their best interests at heart and to also support their wellbeing. The importance of consistent and positive role models that young people can relate to was emphasised.
One of the representatives of Speakerbox was able to outline the support that she had received from a mentor from the Kings Trust who helped her navigate her path towards university, also providing support and help for her brother. Their support was invaluable by having someone to regularly check in on progress and provide helpful guidance.
Speakerbox proposal
Speakerbox presented an outline of their proposal to the committee which addresses:
· Progress and review
· Outcomes and reflection and
· Feedback on success of project.
Moving forward
· Meetings accessibility
· Agreed plan of actions
· Comments and reflection
Comments arising from presentation:
· Noted different types of mentors and the need for them at the different stages of the child and young person’s life
· Reference to peer mentorship and how effective this can be
· Acknowledged key that a young person has someone they confide in and talk which may be a combination of professional and peer support mentors.
· Query on PEP (personal education plan) form and if addresses mentorship/support. Confirmed that there is a section within the form on careers, but officers can work with Speakerbox to ensure collaborate with the relevant support / mentorship needed. Comment made that this is needed before 16.
The committee were also able to give feedback of the transformational impact of mentors within their life and how this directed and shaped their paths and opportunities in life. Also commented, about the importance to give safe spaces for young people to talk.