Wolverhampton mentoring scheme aims to help 15,000 vulnerable young people thrive in adulthood
The Ambitious Together Foundation says the challenges facing young adults are stark
A Wolverhampton-based charity has launched a new initiative with the goal of helping 15,000 vulnerable young people across the region get the best start at adult life.
The Ambitious Together Foundation believes the challenges facing young adults are stark and is on a mission to set up care leavers, young people with addition needs and other vulnerable young people to thrive.
The foundation has created a consistent mentoring network that helps turn ambition into long-term success by matching young people up with adults who can best help them with their goals.
19-year-old Shayden Ottey from the city knows first hand the benefits of the programme.
Shayden, who is autistic, turned his love for trains into a getting a job at Ruby Train Station with the help of an Ambitious Together Mentor.
"From last year to now, I'd say having a mentor definitely has boosted my confidence, in wanting to succeed and go further with myself," he said.
"I'd say it's definitely benefitting me in the long run and in general.
He said support in what to do next dropped after he finished in full time education and that schemes like this are incredibly beneficial.
The hope is to reach people all over the nation.
The charity said figures from the Office for National Statistics found 40% of care-experienced people -including those aged 19 to 21 who are young carers for a loved one - are not in employment, education or training, compared with 12.7% those that haven’t experienced care.
The foundations CEO, Matthew Gordon, said his goal is simple - to ensure every young person has someone cheering for them and offering support.
"Young people with trusted adults and positive role models, they typically achieve better outcomes in education and employment and wellbeing," he said.
"Mentoring isn't just about advice - it's about, I suppose, knowing someone is in your corner."