University of Strathclyde introduce new mentoring scheme for care leavers

The scheme is part of the University’s commitment to widening access to its courses and services to as many people as possible.

The mentoring scheme for care-experienced students will begin in September and will involve each student being matched with a volunteer member of staff. They will meet at least once a fortnight, with the member of staff providing advice and support to help the student settle in and successfully enjoy their time at Strathclyde.

Plans for the new scheme have already been well received by University staff, more than 150 of whom volunteered in the first 48 hours of applications from potential mentors being accepted.

The mentoring scheme is the latest addition to the Strathclyde Cares programme, through which all of the University’s support activities for young people with experience of the care system take place. The programme recently celebrated the graduation of another three students, one of whom is advancing to PhD studies at Strathclyde.

The University’s Alumni Fund supports the graduation costs of students who are part of Strathclyde Cares – meeting the cost of gowns, photographs and transcripts.

Jordan Taylor was one of the three recent graduates, achieving a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Immunology with First Class Honours. He said: “The help I received from Strathclyde Cares was really indispensable in allowing me to have the memorable graduation day I did. The programme’s support allowed me to have a great day completely stress and risk free.

“As a care leaver, I received regular contact from the University letting me know that support was available. Throughout my time at Strathclyde, they demonstrated their commitment to people in my situation and I greatly appreciate it.”

Dr Veena O’Halloran, Director of Student Experience and Enhancement Services at Strathclyde, said: “Seeing our Strathclyde Cares students graduate is always a proud moment because it rewards their hard work and talent, while also proving our approach to supporting care leavers works.

“Young people in the care system need assistance and guidance to help them realise their potential and we are committed to making that as easy as possible for them. Our new mentoring scheme will help them make the transition to university life and the overwhelmingly positive response we’ve had from staff to be part of the programme underlines just how caring and supportive Strathclyde is.”

Further information on Strathclyde Cares can be seen at http://www.strath.ac.uk/careleavers/