Get Connected

Key Information

We are not delivering the Get Connected project at this time. Please refer to the Kent County Council Local Offer for details of similar programmes available in your area.

Get Connected is a peer mentoring project matching young people together for structured activities based in Maidstone, Dartford and Gravesham. Trained mentors accompany mentees to an activity of their choosing for (up to) 12 weeks. The person-centred project is has been funded to prioritise support for young people with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC), and is designed flexibly to meet the personal goals of each mentee. Get Connected facilitates confidence building, increased personal/social skills and opportunities for mentees to connect to their community.

Who is involved?

Young people (11-19 years old) with additional needs who would like to improve their skills and connect with other young people in their community.

Mentees

Young people (11-19 years old) with additional needs who would like to improve their skills and connect with other young people in their community. The project is has been funded to prioritise support for young people with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC).

Mentors

Young people (16-19 years old) who receive training from CXK and work alongside other mentors in providing support to mentees through planning and enabling their mentee to attend activities.

Volunteering Commitment: two hours a week for (up to) 12 weeks, once a week, outside of school hours. The role is suitable for the volunteer section of DofE gold.

Programme Coordinator

Meets mentees and parents/carers to discuss their personal goals and what they want to achieve during the programme. Recruits and trains mentors before matching mentees and mentors together. Oversees activities and provides continued support throughout the programme.

 

The Benefits of Peer Mentoring

For all involved:

• Improved communication skills.
• A chance to try a new activity or club.
• Building authentic relationships.

For mentees:

• Increased confidence.
• Being encouraged and empowered to attend clubs and/or activities.
• Help to identify and fortify your personal skills.
• Someone to chat with if you are worried/anxious when attending an new activity.

For mentors:

• Formal training.
• Developed leadership skills.
• Volunteering experience.

 

How Can I Get Connected?

How to make a referral for a mentee

At this time we are unable to accept any new Mentee referrals. Please check again in March 2024

1. Get in touch with the Programme Coordinator (PC) who will send over a referral form. Alternatively, complete the online referral form.
2. Once the referral has been received, you will be contacted to arrange a meeting.
3. The PC will meet with the mentee and parent/carer to discuss support needs and the type of activity the mentee wishes to engage in.
4. The PC will then match the mentee with a mentor and the placement (up to 12 weeks) will start with the ongoing support of the Programme Coordinator.

Could you be a volunteer mentor?

• Are you 16 – 19 ?
• Do you care about others and are looking to volunteer?
• Do you want to improve your own skills in working with people?

The process:

1. Get in touch with the Programme Coordinator (PC) and express your interest. Alternatively, complete the online application form
2. Fill out an application form and take part in a 10 minute phone interview
3. Attend a 1 day training session with other mentors
4. You will then be matched with a mentee and the placement (up to 12 weeks) will start with the ongoing support of the Programme Coordinator.