Robert and Brian

Names and some details have been replaced for confidentiality purposes

 

Robert was referred to the project as a 16 year old looked after child living in Sutton who was not in education or employment. He was matched with an experienced mentor named Brian. Robert did not fully engage with the project to begin with, and soon after the mentoring relationship began, he found himself in trouble with the police. Robert fell out with his group of friends over the incident involving the police, and soon after refused to enter Sutton Town Centre because he feared for his own safety. Robert engaged with the project more following this event and it quickly became apparent that Brian became the only person that Robert was engaging with. Because Robert did not feel safe in Sutton Brian was willing to continue the relationship away from the town centre.

As the mentoring relationship drew to the end of its one year structure Robert was about to turn 18, meaning he would move in to independent accommodation through the Leaving Care Team so it was clear that MAPS’ involvement could not cease. The decision was made to extend his mentoring relationship by six months to provide Robert with some support during this huge transition. Robert continued to engage with Brian, and they met regularly for the next six months where they would spend some time talking about the future and allowing Robert some time to unwind. Robert was keen to achieve a goal they had previously set, which was to save up enough of the budget attached to mentoring and attend a premier league football match, which he achieved in the final six months. Robert also began to feel more comfortable in the town centre. He is now involved in other social clubs, engaging with his social worker and is currently on target to complete a painting and decorating course.

 

 

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