A charity is working to unlock the potential of young people across Somerset.
PROMISEworks, a mentoring charity supporting young people aged five to 25 with challenges at home, school, or work, currently runs eight mentoring partnerships in West Somerset, compared to more than 150 across the county.
On Monday, February 16, the charity held a campaign meeting in Watchet with Rachel Gilmour, the Liberal Democrat MP for Tiverton and Minehead, to raise awareness and recruit more mentors.
Sue Bill, Somerset coast and Taunton coordinator for PROMISEworks, said: "We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Rachel and her team for organising such a successful press conference at East Quay in Watchet.
"As a West Somerset resident, I was especially proud to come together with passionate members of our community who share our commitment to building a brighter future for young people.
"The event created a valuable opportunity to strengthen local connections, exchange ideas, and highlight the positive impact mentoring can have on a young person’s life.
"We are encouraged by the enthusiasm and support shown today, and we hope it inspires others across our community to step forward, get involved, and help make a lasting difference through mentoring."
Following the meeting, Mrs Gilmour agreed to write to the education minister to request a meeting to discuss the merits of the PROMISEworks programme, and committed to bidding for a Westminster Hall debate and an adjournment debate on support for mentoring programmes within the community.
Mrs Gilmour said: "Yesterday was a fantastic opportunity to share the vital work PROMISEworks does in the county with regional media, and to work strategically with local councillors and stakeholders to advance our mentor recruitment efforts.
"I would like to thank the mentees and mentors for coming along and sharing their experiences.
"It was incredibly useful to hear from those who have been supported by the charity.
"Sadly, there is a waiting list in West Somerset for young people to receive mentoring.
"You don’t need to be an expert to become a mentor – you just need to be kind, with a few hours spare each week.
"If you’re interested in supporting a young person in our local area, please email info@PROMISEworks.org.uk or call +44 (0)300 3651 900."
Share