Why mentoring matters

Youth mentoring is a one-to-one relationship between a young person and a trusted adult who offers guidance, encouragement, and support. At Sport 4 Life, our mentoring programmes are designed to help you build confidence, overcome challenges, and take positive steps towards a future that works for you.

Whether you’re unsure about your next steps, looking for support with education or employment, or simply need someone to talk to, a mentor can be that consistent, positive presence in your life.

If you’re not in education or employment right now, our mentoring is free, flexible, and built around your goals.

Our mentoring Programms

At Sport 4 Life, A youth mentoring means having someone in your corner

The benefits of mentoring

Mentoring is more than just advice — it’s a relationship that helps you grow, feel supported, and take real steps toward your future. Whether you’re looking for confidence, direction, or practical help with work or education, mentoring can give you what you need to move forward.

Build confidence and self-belief

Mentoring gives you a safe space to talk things through and build trust in yourself. With regular encouragement and guidance from someone who listens, you’ll grow your confidence and learn how to handle challenges with resilience.

Develop employability skills

Mentoring helps you build practical skills for work and life — from CV writing and interview preparation to teamwork and communication. These tools help you move into education, employment, or training.

Set goals and stay motivated

Your mentor helps you set goals that matter and supports you to reach them. With personalised guidance and encouragement, you’ll stay focused and feel more confident about your next steps.

Have someone to talk to

Sometimes, just having someone who listens can make a big difference. Mentors offer a judgement-free space where you can open up, ask questions, and talk through what’s on your mind.

Feel supported and understood

Our mentors are experienced, trusted adults who understand the challenges young people face. You’ll feel heard, valued, and supported as you work towards your personal goals.

Take steps towards your future

Mentoring gives you a pathway forward. Whether your goal is education, employment, or something else, we’ll help you take that next step — with a plan and the confidence to move ahead.

“It’s worth a shot for anyone who wants more out of life. You don’t need to like sports or even know what you want; you just need to want something more.”

read Kit's story

How mentoring works at Sport 4 Life

Mentoring with Sport 4 Life is built around you. Whether you’re looking for guidance with education, work, or life in general, we tailor our support to fit your needs and goals.

What does a mentoring session look like?

Every mentoring journey is different, but typically you’ll meet regularly with your mentor — someone who listens, understands, and helps you move forward. Each session is shaped around what you need most, whether talking things through, setting goals, or learning new skills.

A typical session might include:

  • Checking in – How have things been going since your last session?
  • Talking through challenges – Get advice and support on anything you’re finding tough.
  • Setting or reviewing goals – What do you want to achieve, and how can we get you closer?
  • Building skills – From CV writing to confidence-building activities.
  • Next steps – Agree on what you’ll work on before the next time you meet.

Sessions are relaxed, one-to-one conversations that can take place wherever you feel most comfortable, including local libraries, coffee shops, or community spaces. You can also meet virtually.

Who is mentoring for?

Our mentoring is for young people aged 11–29 who are not currently in education, employment, or training (NEET). Our mentoring programmes are designed for anyone who feels they’d benefit from guidance, support, and someone in their corner.

We’re here for you if you’re unsure about your next steps or need help getting back on track. You might be:

  • Struggling with confidence, motivation, or direction
  • Transitioning from school, college, or unemployment into something new
  • Looking to build employability skills and plan for the future

All our mentoring programmes are flexible and built around your goals, because no two journeys are the same.

What makes a good youth mentor?

A great mentor is someone who listens, understands, and genuinely cares about helping you succeed. At Sport 4 Life, our mentors are trained professionals who create a safe space where you can be yourself and feel heard.

Here’s what you can expect from your mentor:

  • Supportive and non-judgemental – They’re here to help, not tell you what to do.
  • Experienced and qualified – All mentors are trained in youth work, safeguarding, and mental health awareness.
  • Understanding and relatable – Many have faced challenges themselves and know what it’s like to feel stuck or unsure.

Mentoring is a partnership — it’s about working together to help you grow and achieve your goals, at your own pace.

Mentoring can help you BUILD YOUR SKILLS, GROW YOUR confidence AND FIND YOUR PURPOSE

How to get started with mentoring

Taking the first step can feel like a big deal — but we’re here to make it simple. If you’re facing challenges or want someone to talk to, mentoring can give you the support, encouragement, and direction to help you confidently take your next step.

If you think mentoring could help you, we’ll guide you through every stage.

  1. Get in touch – Fill in a short form to tell us a bit about yourself.
  2. We’ll have a quick chat – A friendly member of the team will get in touch to understand your goals and match you with the right support.
  3. Meet your mentor – Once matched, you’ll begin regular one-to-one sessions designed to help you move forward.

You don’t need to have everything figured out — that’s what your mentor is for.

Sign up for mentoring

giving you the confidence and skills you need to move into sustained education, employment or training

Frequently asked questions

 

Youth mentoring is a supportive, one-to-one relationship between a young person and a trusted adult who helps them build confidence, set goals, and take positive steps towards their future. At Sport 4 Life, our mentors are friendly role models who provide guidance, encouragement, and practical support to help you overcome challenges and achieve your potential.
Our mentoring is open to young people aged 11 to 29 who want support with education, employment, or personal development. Whether you're still in school, actively job hunting, or facing barriers to progression, we have a programme that can help. We also work with schools and employers to offer tailored mentoring in educational and workplace settings. You can sign up yourself or be referred by a teacher, parent, job centre, or support worker.
Our programmes typically last around 12 months, but it depends on your individual goals. Some people continue to receive support even after progressing into work or education.
A mentor is there to support you in achieving your goals—whatever they might be. This can include improving your confidence, building key skills like teamwork or communication, planning your next steps, or navigating challenges like job interviews or returning to education. At Sport 4 Life, our mentors take the time to understand your needs and work with you to create a personalised plan for your future.
Every mentoring journey is unique, but here's what you can typically expect:
  • Sign up online or through a referral partner
  • Meet your mentor, who will listen and help you understand your goals
  • Create a plan together, focused on personal and professional development
  • Take part in one-to-one sessions and optional workshops
  • Access continued support even after you've moved into work or education
Sessions can take place in person or virtually, depending on your situation and preferences.
No. Sport is part of our wider mission, but you don’t have to be sporty to take part. We support young people from all backgrounds, with or without an interest in sport.
Mentoring can take place in schools, online, in the community, or at one of our partner locations. We’ll work with you to find a time and place that works best for you.
While all our mentoring programmes are tailored to individual needs, each one is shaped around your environment—whether that’s school, work, or everyday life. The support is always one-to-one and focused on helping you achieve your goals.
No, our mentoring services are free for young people. In some cases, like workplace mentoring, costs may be covered by the employer.
It’s simple. You can sign up directly, refer a young person, or speak to your school or employer if they already work with us. Just head to our sign-up page or get in touch.

 

“Sport 4 Life doesn’t just change lives; it saves lives. Their support is so versatile—they always meet me halfway, and there’s never any pressure to do anything I’m uncomfortable with. It feels personal and respectful.”

Kit

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