Through the Gate is an exciting new project where volunteers can make a positive impact on the lives of offenders as they adjust to life after prison.
A partnership between CSV and West Yorkshire Probation Service, Through the Gate aims to reduce re-offending by training and supporting volunteers to mentor offenders returning to Bradford Metropolitan District from custodial establishments across Yorkshire and Humberside.
Mentors will spend a few hours a week offering practical support and encouragement to boost offenders’ self-esteem. Activities might include assisting offenders with appointments and interviews, helping them access housing, employment or training, improving access to community activities and encouraging pro-social behaviour within their local community, whilst developing positive alternatives to criminal activity.
How will you make a difference?
The first three months after release is the most crucial time for offenders, especially younger people, with re-offending most likely to occur during this period. Through the Gate aims to break this cycle of re-offending by recruiting energetic and enthusiastic volunteers to help offenders settle successfully back into their community.
Mentors make a big difference. By volunteering you will be helping to improve prospects for ex offenders and reduce re-offending, cutting levels of crime and making our communities safer places in which to live and work. You will be offering support to people who are facing particular difficulties and challenges in their life. Mentors often build rewarding relationships based on trust and mutual respect and both parties can gain enormously from the experience.
Who can be a volunteer mentor?
Being a volunteer mentor is a challenge and can be frustrating at times, but with commitment and enthusiasm the rewards can be immense!
You need to be at least 18 and able to commit to a minimum of two hours a week for at least four months, ideally longer. In particular we are looking for volunteers who feel they can use their life skills and experience whilst giving positive, focused, one-to-one support. You will be mature, open-minded and a great communicator – good at motivating and enthusing people who might lack self-esteem and confidence.
What training and support will I get?
Before getting started we take you through a comprehensive application, training and assessment process which includes completing a CRB disclosure. This can take longer than some volunteering programmes, but CSV wants to ensure its volunteers are fully equipped to face the challenge ahead and the wait is well worth it! Once you get started you have the backing of the UK’s largest volunteering and training organisation. We provide you with ongoing support and supervision so that any issues can be sorted out easily and quickly.
Sounds great – how can I get involved?
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer mentor or would like to find out more about the project we’d love to hear from you.
For more information call Gillian White, Through the Gate Project Coordinator on
01274 737266 or email gwhite@csv.org.uk