Supporting Individuals

The Footsteps Project offers support to individuals who have experienced issues with drugs, alcohol and/or homelessness. By matching them with a trained Mentor or Befriender, the client will be encouraged to move forward positively towards their chosen goals. Footsteps also equips its volunteer Mentors and Befrienders with the skills and confidence needed to offer constructive and motivational support to others

Aims and Objectives

Through regular meetings with a Mentor or Befriender, the project aims to reduce feelings of isolation and social exclusion. It strives to increase the individual’s self-esteem and confidence in communicating with others. Through this process, Footsteps aims to reduce any risk of relapse, and to help the client move forward positively and independently in their lives.   In order to achieve our aims, Footsteps first assesses the individual’s needs and aspirations. We then match them with a suitable volunteer Mentor or Befriender, who will meet regularly with the client and spend time working with them to identify their goals and the steps needed to work towards them.

Regular Opportunities

The pair will also have regular opportunities to meet with a Footsteps worker, to discuss their progress and any concerns they may have. The support is tailored to the individual, but may include social visits, sport activities, advice and guidance, practical help or signposting clients to other suitable services.

Footsteps also offers its Volunteer Mentors and Befrienders ongoing training and regular support, to help ensure that their experience of being a Mentor or Befriender is stimulating, rewarding and valuable for their own personal development.