Volunteer Peer Mentor

About The Role

Glasgow North West Carers Service provides unpaid Carers and their families in the North West of Glasgow with practical help and emotional support. Looking after someone can be an isolating and debilitating experience and we are here to help Carers access the information, advice and support they need to feel more able to cope with their situation, to take positive steps to address difficulties and increase their wellbeing.

We work wherever possible with existing community resources in Northwest Glasgow to develop a ‘one stop shop’ approach for Carers to access support services.  Family Wellbeing Workers listen to the Carer, help them prioritise their needs and to access the help they need.

Peer Mentoring Pilot

This pilot project is aimed at young people up to the age of 25 who provide unpaid care for someone in their family or who are impacted by levels of care to someone in their family with additional need. Glasgow NW Carers Service has identified a need for increased mental health and emotional support for this group. A Volunteer Peer Mentor plays a vital role in supporting individuals through guidance, encouragement, and shared experiences. This position is designed for those who are passionate about helping others, fostering personal growth, and building a sense of community. Peer mentors act as role models, offering practical advice and emotional support to their mentees.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide Guidance and Support:

Offer advice, share individual experiences, and help navigate challenges related to  personal, academic, or caring role.

• Foster a Positive Environment:

Create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where mentees feel comfortable discussing their concerns and aspirations.

• Encourage Personal Development:

Motivate mentees to set and achieve goals, develop new skills, and build confidence.

• Facilitate Group Activities:

Organize and participate in group sessions, workshops, or events that promote learning and community engagement.

• Maintain Confidentiality:

Respect the privacy of mentees and manage sensitive information with discretion.

• Collaborate with Colleagues:

Work closely with Family Wellbeing Worker (Inclusion and Development) and other Mentors to ensure the program’s success and address any issues that arise.

Essential Skills and Qualities

• Empathy and Active Listening:

Ability to understand and relate to the experiences of others, offering support without judgment.

• Strong Communication:

Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills to engage with mentees from diverse backgrounds.

• Reliability and Commitment:

Consistent participation and dedication to the mentoring relationship.

• Problem-Solving:

Ability to help mentees identify challenges and explore potential solutions.

• Adaptability:

Flexibility to respond to the changing needs of mentees and the Project.

Typical Activities

• Meeting regularly with assigned mentees (in-person or virtually)
• Assisting with goal setting and progress tracking
• Sharing resources and information relevant to mentees’ interests
• Participating in training sessions and ongoing development opportunities
• Providing feedback to program coordinators

Benefits of Volunteering as a Peer Mentor

• Personal Growth:

Enhance leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Community Impact:

Make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

• Networking Opportunities:

Connect with fellow mentors, mentees, and professionals.

• Recognition:

Receive acknowledgment for your contributions and commitment.

Commitment and Expectations

• Time Commitment:

Time commitment to attend training, including Quarriers mandatory training and Peer Mentor training (2-3 days in person, with additional online training). Essential training must be completed before beginning mentorship

Minimum requirement of up to 2 hours per week for meeting with mentee (excluding travel time and note-taking).

Time commitment for regular supportive supervision meetings

• Training:

Participation in initial and ongoing training and supportive supervision sessions is required.

• Supervision

Volunteers are expected to work under the direction of the Family Wellbeing Worker (Inclusion and Development including regular supervision and performance feedback.

• Duration:

Volunteer commitment to the program is a minimum of 12 months

• Meeting Locations and Times:

Peer Mentor meetings will take place in safe, approved, and easily accessible environments. Volunteers and mentees may during Service opening times (Monday to Friday  9.00AM to 5.00PM). Some early evening work may be required if agreed by all parties

Meetings will typically be held in the following locations:

• The Mentee’s school – in a designated space approved by school staff.
• Glasgow NW Carers Service:  rooms arranged and approved for mentoring sessions.
• Other approved community locations in the north west of Glasgow – any additional meeting spaces will be risk‑assessed and agreed upon in advance by programme staff.

All meeting locations will prioritize the safety, comfort, and wellbeing of both the mentee and the volunteer.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Experience of the impact of caring for a family member with a long-term condition, additional need, substance misuse, or mental health diagnosis
• Passionate about helping others succeed
• Demonstrates maturity, responsibility, and a positive attitude
• Willing to learn and grow alongside mentees
• Open to feedback and continuous improvement

Becoming a Volunteer Peer Mentor is an opportunity to inspire, support, and empower others while developing valuable skills for your own personal and professional journey.

Next Steps

Contact - eve.smith@quarriers.org.uk