FotO and Mentoring
Friends on the Out (FotO) is a unique Volunteer Mentoring scheme that aims to help young men turn away from crime and move towards leading positive, purposeful and productive lives in their local community.
Nationally it is estimated that 80% of 14-18 year old offenders re-offend within 3 years of being convicted.
The heart behind FotO is to see a significant reduction in re-offending by giving young people the support, encouragement and stability they so desperately need after release from prison.
Having a FotO Mentor can make a huge difference to an individual young person and together FotO Mentors have seen the re-offending rate drop by 30% among the young people being Mentored.
With potentially hundreds of young people every year needing the support of a FotO Mentor we are always looking for new Volunteer Mentors - we need you!
We are looking for people with a heart for young offenders, who have the patience, commitment and compassion to be a positive role model in the lives of these young men.
Full and comprehensive training as well as travel expenses are provided so that our Mentors are fully equipped to be the best they can be.
FotO Volunteer Mentors visit male young offenders on a one-to-one basis for about one hour a week. The Mentoring relationship begins in the prison while the young person is serving the last 3-6 months of his sentence. It then continues for a further 6 months after their release over the often difficult period of reintegration into society.
The Mentor offers simple practical help and advice on education, employment and housing as well as offering emotional and spiritual support.
"FotO Mentors have seen the re-offending rate drop by 30% among the young people being Mentored."
FotO is committed to the highest possible standards of safe and effective Mentoring for both our Mentors and Mentees, as recognised by the Mentoring and Befriending Foundation's 'Approved Provider Standard'.
If you are interested in becoming a Mentor or finding out more about the scheme you can download the information pack and application here.
Download FotO Information Pack (PDF Format)