Many Ukrainian families have settled in the London Borough of Sutton since the war in Ukraine began in February 2022. Families have been impacted by the trauma of war and a forced displacement from their home country, and the impact on Ukrainian young people has been huge.
As an extension of our existing support for the Ukraine community, the MAPS Mentoring Programme for Young People from Ukraine in Sutton was initiated to provide essential support and guidance to young individuals from Ukraine as they adapt to their new environment.
"I enjoy spending time with my mentor because they make me happy."
Each young person has been matched with a trained Mentor and they meet weekly for one-to-one Mentoring support, helping to build their confidence, improve their English and overcome challenges.
“I enjoy spending time with my mentor because I always learn something new and interesting for myself.”
They have also had the opportunity to take part in a wide range of activities with their Mentors. Our young people (and our Mentors) have had huge fun, as well as being able to explore their new environment and develop new skills.
“MAPS group activities make me feel excited, interested and help me to socialise.”
Our Ukrainian young people have also attended our MAPS socials. Held once a month, these sessions provide an opportunity for all our Mentoring pairs to get together, socialise and have fun in a safe space. Bringing our Ukrainian young people together with their British counterparts has also helped to break down barriers and encourage integration.
Thank you to Sutton Council for funding this programme and thank you to our amazing MAPS Mentors for making this possible!
If you would like to find out more about our work with the Ukrainian community please contact Nick Baum on nickbaum@vcsutton.org.uk.
Are you a child, young person, parent or guardian of a young person who would like to get involved with MAPS Mentoring? Please give us your details here and a member of our friendly team will be in touch with you soon.
