How long are the mentoring programmes?
The mentoring programmes are designed to last anywhere from 3 to 12 months, depending on the availability of the mentor and mentee; the mentee’s age and needs; as well as the number of available mentees.
When can I start the mentorship programme?
You can start the mentorship programme as soon as you’ve passed the application process! Of course, we’ll still need to match you up with a mentor/mentee.
Where does the programme take place?
Mentorship can take place anywhere the mentor and mentee are comfortable, whether online, at the park, in the arcade or anywhere else. We prefer initial meetings to be under LCN supervision and secure, so they typically take place online via Zoom. Other than that, it depends entirely on your individual preferences.
How much does it cost?
LCN is a registered charity. As such, our mentorship scheme costs nothing! We want to help support the Latin American youth of the UK, and we can’t do that if we’re charging them for our services.
Can I come with friends to the events?
For mentors, we suggest that they attend events with their mentees by themselves. If a mentee wants friends to accompany them to mentoring events, and the mentor is happy with it, then you can absolutely do so.
Will I ever be forced to do an activity?
No, a mentor or mentee will never be forced to partake in an activity they do not wish to. LCN is about encouragement and support; there will never be negative consequences for declining to take part in an activity or event.
What if I decide to leave the mentoring programme just after a few weeks?
If things aren’t working out, we’d first like to discuss alternative mentoring arrangements with you: partnering you with a different mentor, for instance. If you still think mentoring isn’t for you, then you can leave, and we will pair your partner up with someone else.
Can I do the mentoring programme again after 12 months?
If you enjoyed the mentoring programme and want to participate again after 12 months, or however long your mentorship arrangement lasts, you can indeed sign up again. However, you will have to be reassessed as a fresh applicant. LCN’s resources are finite, and we have to be fair in using them equally amongst all who request them.
What if I don’t have a laptop at home to join the mentorship programme online?
Zoom works on smartphones and tablets, so if you don’t have a laptop or desktop, you can still use those devices. If you don’t have any device capable of joining online video calls, please speak to an LCN representative and we will discuss alternative arrangements.
Will the mentoring programme run face-to-face?
The mentorship programme will be run through a mixture of online and face-to-face sessions, depending on the activity choices of the mentor/mentee, each partner’s preference and the current regulations regarding in-person interaction.
Can I volunteer after being part of the mentoring programme?
Absolutely! We’re always looking for mentors.
Can I be part of the mentoring programme if I have a criminal conviction? LCN believes in reform and the potential for anyone to build a better future, so we welcome mentees with criminal convictions. However, for safeguarding reasons we cannot accept mentors with a criminal history.