About Us
The team behind the Programme
About Us
Gloucestershire Mentoring Programme
GMP is a partnership of four charities that provides an Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) trauma-informed intensive mentoring support service for young people in Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire. Specifically, we focus on those considered at risk of being linked to criminal activity. This can be due to exposure to ACEs, experience of adverse community environments, involvement in antisocial behaviour, and/or being connected to others involved in crime. We guide them through life’s challenges, supporting them to develop healthy choices, coping mechanisms and relationships – tools that help to prevent their involvement with the police.
Collaborating
Matching Young People and Mentors
GMP partners work together to ensure mentees and volunteer mentors are assigned to the partner organisation that’s most appropriate for them – often the one that’s most local. All partners take time to get to know mentees before matching them with a suitable mentor, usually a volunteer. Young people who are considered ‘higher risk’ may be matched with a paid member of staff. All mentors receive appropriate training and support from their host organisation and are invited to attend the partnership’s online extended training events.
Collaborating
GMP is led by four organisations that have joined forces to provide crucial local support for young people in Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire. Our trained volunteer mentors work hand-in-hand with their mentees, fostering trusted relationships that lead to improved life outcomes. And we offer additional support by working with other providers to bridge the gap between young people and the services they require.
Supporting
We offer a safe space where young people can build trusting relationships with supportive adults. Here, they can freely express themselves and be heard, and receive long-term support to tackle hurdles and journey towards a positive future.
Empowering
Our Programme equips young people with the tools they need to thrive. We provide practical and emotional support, helping them build resilience and confidence to face life’s challenges head-on.
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The Door
Established in 1991, The Door is a community-based charity providing support to young people and families in the Stroud District and South Cotswold. We focus on individuals aged 11 to 18, offering a range of services to empower them and promote positive outcomes.
The Nelson Trust
The Nelson Trust is committed to providing trauma-informed, gender-responsive, and holistic support to individuals affected by addiction and their families across Gloucestershire. Our services cater to young people aged 14 to 25, ensuring they receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs.
Young Gloucestershire
Since 1941, Young Gloucestershire has been dedicated to supporting young people across Gloucestershire. Our GMP provision focusses on individuals aged 10 to 18, and includes additional support for higher risk young people.
1625 Independent People
1625IP is dedicated to preventing homelessness among young people in South Gloucestershire. Our services are tailored to individuals aged 16 to 25, providing support and resources to help them secure stable housing and build brighter futures.
The Partner Organisations
How the
collaboration works
Four charities work in harmony to deliver GMP – The Door, which also coordinates the Programme, The Nelson Trust, Young Gloucestershire and 1625 Independent People (1625ip). Each brings a wealth of experience and expertise in working with young people, offering mentoring, and supporting complex needs. Together, we provide staff and volunteer mentoring for young people in Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire.
It’s easy to access support or enquire about becoming a volunteer mentor. Just follow our online application process and when we receive your request, we’ll guide you to the GMP partner organisation that’s right for you. This partner will support you on your GMP journey and you can let them know about any preferences you’d like them to take on board. We’re all committed to giving you the best possible experience.
Testimonials
What people say about us
Success to date
So far, we have supported 428 young people – 278 in mentoring relationships and others receiving pre-mentoring support. Our mentees have been able to make improvements around healthy coping mechanisms, decision making, and relationships. They’ve also reported a feeling of safety, and of being listened to by a good role model who genuinely cares and inspires them to think more positively about their futures.”
Young people
in mentoring relationships
Our external evaluator, Rocket Science, has reported young people who’ve experienced GMP mentoring are:
A history of GMP
The journey so far
Our journey began in 2021, when CHK Foundation offered to fund a partnership of charities in the Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire area to deliver mentoring to girls and young women (GYW) aged 11-25 who were identified as being ‘at risk’ of involvement in the criminal justice system. In 2023, because of our successful impact, CHK extended its initial two-year funding period by a further 12 months to October 2024, and at this point the mentoring offer was extended to serve boys and young men as well. We’re currently seeking funding to continue our important work.
Meet Our Team
