Structured · Relational · Preparation for Adulthood
Community Mentoring
Structured, relational community mentoring for young people aged 11–25 with SEND, SEMH needs, or complex neurodivergent profiles — supporting independence, social participation, and preparation for adulthood.
What is Community Mentoring?
Relationships in Real Contexts
Community mentoring at Wild Minds is not a social club or generic befriending service. It is structured, purposeful mentoring — delivered by skilled practitioners — in community contexts that matter to the young person.
Mentoring sessions take place in the community: in cafés, leisure centres, parks, libraries, and local services. Practitioners work alongside young people on real tasks, building the skills and confidence they need for independent adult life.
Community mentoring can sit alongside an alternative provision placement, or be commissioned as a standalone support package. It is particularly effective as a transition support during or after a Wild Minds placement.
Who is it for?
Young people aged 11–25 with autism, ADHD, SEMH, EBSA, trauma histories, or complex needs who would benefit from structured, relational support in community settings.
How is it delivered?
Weekly or fortnightly sessions of 1–2 hours, one-to-one or in small groups of 2. Sessions are planned around the young person's goals and preparation for adulthood outcomes.
How is it funded?
Community mentoring can be EHCP-funded, school-funded, or privately commissioned. Wild Minds can provide evidence of outcomes for EHCP review purposes.
Focus Areas
What Community Mentoring Develops
Community Navigation
Using public transport, visiting services, understanding local environments, and moving safely in the community.
Social Skills
Conversations, relationships, reading social cues, and participating in community activities alongside others.
Independence Skills
Managing money, shopping, using facilities, appointments, and practical daily life skills in real contexts.
Emotional Regulation
Applying regulation strategies in unpredictable community environments — developing genuine resilience.
Employment Readiness
Work experience, visiting workplaces, practising interviews, and exploring vocational interests in the community.
Wellbeing & Leisure
Discovering interests, hobbies, and activities that support mental health, confidence, and a sense of identity.
Measurable Progress
How We Measure Outcomes
Community mentoring outcomes are tracked against the young person's individual goals and reported to commissioning bodies. Where community mentoring sits within an EHCP package, outcomes contribute to annual review evidence.
Goal progress — session-by-session
WMSS™ baseline and review
Preparation for adulthood domain progress
Student voice — captured at baseline and review
Parent / carer feedback
Practitioner observation and narrative
Independence skills milestones
Engagement and consistency of attendance
Interested in community mentoring for a young person?
We accept referrals for community mentoring from schools, local authorities, and families. Speak to our team to discuss suitability and next steps.