A TARGETED recruitment campaign has been launched in West Somerset to try to increase the number of active mentors across the district.

The young people’s mentoring charity PROMISEworks currently has 150 mentor-mentee partnerships across the county, but only eight in West Somerset.

An event attended by MP Rachel Gilmour on Monday (February 16) in East Quay, Watchet, launched a campaign to increase the number of mentors.

The charity pairs young people between the ages of five and 25 years with local mentors to help them with difficulties at school, home, and work.

General manager Ali Hart and Somerset Coast co-ordinator Sue Bill along with Mrs Gilmour and local councillors, stakeholders, mentees, and mentors discussed the benefits of the programme.

Mrs Gilmour agreed to seek a meeting with Education Minister Bridget Phillipson and to bid for a Westminster Hall debate and an adjournment debate on support for mentoring programmes.

Ms Bill said: “As a West Somerset resident, I was especially proud to come together with passionate members of our community who share our commitment to building a brighter future for young people.

“The event created a valuable opportunity to strengthen local connections, exchange ideas, and highlight the positive impact mentoring can have on a young person’s life.

“We are encouraged by the enthusiasm and support and hope it inspires others across our community to step forward and help make a lasting difference.”

Mrs Gilmour said: “It was incredibly useful to hear from those who have been supported by the charity.

“Sadly, there is a waiting list in West Somerset for young people to receive mentoring.

“You do not need to be an expert to become a mentor, you just need to be kind, with a few hours spare each week.

“If you are interested in supporting a young person, please email [email protected] or call 0300 3651 900.”