The charity, which supports more than 10,000 people a year on their journey from street to home, runs a work and learning project for its current and formerly homeless clients.
The mentoring project, which is funded by corporate supporter Telereal Trillium, is designed to help clients who are looking to make steps towards employment. Mentors support clients to improve CVs and job interview techniques and, in some cases, build on their own business ideas.
Every mentor is given thorough training and also support throughout the project. New mentors are required to sign up with Broadway before February 10.
Roxy Hotten, work and learning manager at Broadway, said the scheme has benefits not only to mentees but also for those offering their skills and advice.
She said: “The feedback we’ve had over the past year of running the mentoring programme is that it not only builds confidence and communications skills among our mentees but it also helps to improve the skills and awareness of our mentors.
“The support of a mentor can have a lasting impact on the lives of our clients, many of whom have been homeless but now want to move into or develop in their careers.
“I would recommend that anyone with a passion for supporting people gets in touch and offers their support. They could make a real difference.”
Mentors must be willing to commit to the scheme for nine months and attend four evening training courses and a pre-match induction. During their mentorship, they will need to have regular face-to-face or phone contact with their mentee.
One mentor who took part in 2013 said: “I found the experience broke down any prejudices or stereotypes I had around homelessness, drug users and people suffering from a mental illness. It’s been an experience I shall hold dear for the rest of my life.”
If you wish to apply to become a mentor, visit www.broadwaylondon.org/
For more information on Broadway Homelessness and Support and to donate to the charity, visit www.broadwaylondon.org.
