Want to be a mentor?

We have put together the information below to make it easier for you to decide if mentoring is for you.

It will give you an idea about how much time you’ll need to commit and how TimeBank will support you.

So what is mentoring?

A mentor is someone who guides, encourages, motivates and inspires. It is sometimes described as a ‘professional friendship’. One official definition describes mentoring as,

"a one-to-one non-judgemental relationship in which an individual mentor voluntarily gives time to support and encourage another. This relationship is typically developed at a time of transition in the mentee's life, and lasts for a significant and sustained period of time."

Mentoring is based on mutual trust and respect. It is not a one-sided relationship, it’s beneficial for both mentee and mentor: both have the chance to learn new things – helping their own personal development.

What will be expected from me?

We don’t expect our mentors to be counsellors, advisors or language or computer experts. Although we do ask that you should be committed, reliable and have an open mind. Our mentors need to be able to speak fluent English and be able to use computers and the internet.

Our mentors also need to be able to commit to a minimum of one hour a week for three months (that’s twelve hours in total). This is the time we think it takes to work with your mentee to support them to achieve their goals.

We think that good mentors are:

• open minded


• patient


• respectful


• good listeners


• excellent communicators


• self aware


• keen to learn new things.

What training and support will I receive?

All mentors receive full training on how the project works, the role of a mentor and how to develop your mentoring skills. The training will also help you to understand some of the challenges facing people who are not confident using computers and speaking English. This training will give you the knowledge and confidence you need before you are matched with a mentee.

Your Project Coordinator will be on hand to provide you with any support and advice you need during your mentoring relationship. They will also organise social events where you get to meet other mentors and mentees, celebrate your achievements and have fun!

How do you match me with a mentee?

We have developed a careful system for matching you with your mentee, to make sure you both get the most out of your time together. After getting to know you at the training we use things such as shared interests and where you live to help us to make the match.

We aim to do this as quickly as possible after training. To make sure we get it right there is sometimes a short wait.

Register to be a mentor