Sova Staffordshire Mentoring and Independent Visitors Service

At Sova Staffordshire we find, train and support volunteer mentors and Independent Visitors for children and young people from across Staffordshire who are, or have been, in care.

Our mentors support and encourage young people as they get ready for life after care. Our Independent Visitors are matched with a child or young person, aged 8 to 18, who needs extra support and encouragement, often because they have little contact with their own families. The volunteer is there as someone ‘independent’, distinct from the paid professionals in the young person’s life. They might take the young person to the cinema or the park, help with homework or simply be there to talk to. It makes a real difference to young people to know they have someone who is on their side.

Our volunteers are fully trained and supported. Independent Visitors must commit to meeting with their young person for 4-6 hours per month for at least two years. Mentors are expected to provide two hours of support each week for at least six months. The Sova Staffordshire Mentoring and Independent Visitors Service is funded by Staffordshire County Council.

For further information on joining our team please contact Hannah Evans at [email protected]