Side by Side Care Leaver Programme
Every young person in care and leaving care should expect to receive the very best care alongside the support and love they need to thrive. Our Side by Side care leaver programme aims to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness for care leavers and to bridge the gap between leaving care and finding their own way in the world.
Learn more about the Side By Side Project and how you can get involved.
What is the Side by Side Care Leaver Programme?
Our Side by Side care leaver programme aims to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness for care leavers and to bridge the gap between leaving care and finding their own way in the world by embarking on their journey ‘Side by Side’ with them, helping them when they need it.
Our Side by Side Care leaver programme will match you with a local mentor. This person will become your mentor and can provide a broad range of support. Taking part in this 12 month programme also gives you access to a £500 care leaver bursary.
What is a Side by Side Mentor?
Your mentor is like having a friend who looks out for you, offering advice and guidance on things that you may be struggling with. They are someone independent who you can talk to and ask for help without worry or judgement.
Whether you want some help with a job application, want support in getting more involved in your local community or just need some advice on how your washing machine works, they are there to listen and help. The time you spend with your Side by Side mentor is driven by you and they will always be on your side.
Is Side by Side Available in My Area?
The Side by Side support programme is proud to support young people across Norfolk, Oxfordshire, Tameside, Neath Port Talbot (until March 2025) and the Wirral.
We are hoping to spread to more areas across England and Wales in the future.