For immediate help at any time, please call us on 03300 564456 (24 hour)
For immediate help at any time, please call us on 03300 564456 (24 hour)
Children in Need Day is a beacon of hope – a day where communities come together to make a difference in the lives of children who need it most. This year’s campaign has once again showcased the incredible generosity and compassion of individuals and communities. It’s heart-warming to witness the outpouring of support last night; knowing that every contribution helps fund projects that make a real impact, including one of our projects at Cyfannol.
As a proud recipients of Children in Need funding for more than a decade, our Male Mentoring Project is a shining example of the positive change that Children in Need has brought. Countless young boys have benefited from this inspirational project in addition to becoming compassionate, self-assured young people.
Our Male Mentoring Project is run across three office locations in Monmouthshire, Torfaen, and Blaenau Gwent. It offers vital support to children aged 5-16 who have witnessed or experienced domestic abuse. This unique programme provides these boys with a problem-free space away from their challenging circumstances, offering a solution-focused approach to build on their identities and prepare them to become confident, caring individuals.
As of now, the project has 11 dedicated mentors who commit 2-4 hours per week to mentor a child on a one-to-one basis or facilitate group mentoring for older children. The focus is on building confidence in various areas, empowering children to overcome the challenges they face.
It was nice having a grown up I didn’t have to share with my sisters. I could talk to them about things. He’d give me good advice, like not to fight. I really don’t know why I got into fights at school. It got me in trouble with my teachers and they would write to my mum. She says I’m happier now.
Mentee
A favourite activity among the boys is our Wilderness Wellbeing, which provides a unique and enriching experience where they are able to learn about the outside world. Many of the boy’s pick to do this activity every time they have their support sessions.
The impact of the project extends beyond the children, as mentors have been presented with new opportunities, including pursuing careers centred around support and even fostering children themselves. A testament to the project’s success is the dedication of mentors; with the longest-supporting mentor reaching an impressive 7 years in May.
Being a mentor has been fantastic! Knowing that just giving some of your time can make such a difference to someone’s future is amazing. It’s so fulfilling, and the staff have been so supportive during the training and the mentoring itself! So excited to see what the next year brings.
Mentor
Just last year, the project has made a significant difference in the lives of 45 children with the support of 6 volunteers dedicating 3,000 hours to the project. Looking at this impact over the course of a decade, the project has helped the lives of over 430 boys, involving around 60 volunteers who have collectively contributed over 30,000 hours.
As we celebrate Children in Need Day and reflect on the immense impact it has had on projects like ours, it’s clear that the generosity of individuals and communities can truly change lives. The Male Mentoring Project stands as a testament to the transformative power of support and guidance, proving that with the right resources, dedication, and compassion, we can create a brighter future for the children who need it the most.
This Children in Need Day, we invite you to be the difference in a child’s life. Our Mentoring Projects, backed by a decade of success, is calling for passionate individuals to become volunteers. Please contact CYP@cyfannol.org.uk to get more information about becoming a volunteer.
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