The Mentor’s Role in Safeguarding

YMM mentors occupy a very privileged position as adults aligned with but outside the power structures that control young peoples’ lives. This will occasionally give us a perspective not available to others, allowing us to spot dangers before they grow into full-blown crises.

Adolescence is a time of growth for which not every child is ready, so the non-judgmental listening ear of a mentor is often most useful at this point. However, listening non-judgmentally does not mean setting aside curiosity or critical faculties; nor does it mean avoiding the challenging or uncomfortable questions necessary to establish whether there is cause for genuine concern. In my experience, choosing the right words is less important than asking in the right spirit: young people can nearly always sense the difference between genuine concern and voyeurism, and even if they react badly in the moment, they generally respect adults concerned and courageous enough to ask questions avoided by others.

Taking time to ‘contract’ at the start of every engagement with a clear description of the limits to confidentiality, ensures mentors have the latitude to act in the best interests of their mentees. Our aim, where possible, should be to make that what happens next feel like it is being done with them and for them rather than to them.

Our safeguarding policy requires that all incidents and concerns, no matter how seemingly trivial, should be reported. However, except in emergencies, mentors should consult their school’s and YMM’s DSLs when considering further escalation. In most cases the school will be in the best position to lead on this as it will generally have direct relationship with parents and carers. Mentors should expect to be kept informed of how matters have progressed and are encouraged to chase if information on follow-up is not forthcoming.

Safeguarding is a critical responsibility for us all, and the best outcomes are achieved when we all do our bit. YMM’s new policy is currently being reviewed by safeguarding specialists ThirtyOneEight and will be available on our website shortly. In addition, we will be running safeguarding training and ‘fire drills’ through this autumn to ensure everyone is clear on the processes by which concerns are raised and escalated.