Voice FM are proud to be supporting an exciting new programme that has arrived in Southampton to help transform the futures of some of the city's most underprivileged young people.
We live in a world where opportunities can make or break a future, and one question remains: who will stand by the young people who need it most? For care leavers – young individuals stepping into adulthood without the support of a family – life can be an unsettling journey filled with uncertainty.
But, starting today, residents of Southampton have the chance to be the difference in a young person’s life by joining a nationally acclaimed mentoring programme that’s transforming futures.
Goal 17, an award-winning organisation known for its impactful work with young care leavers across the UK, has expanded its life-changing programme to Southampton.
Through this initiative, local volunteers can now step up to support care leavers and provide the mentorship needed to help them navigate the challenges of early adulthood.
This is your chance to become part of a movement that has already been recognised on the national stage, having been shortlisted for the prestigious Social Mobility Initiative of the Year at the European Diversity Awards.
Why Southampton Needs You Care leavers are among the most vulnerable members of our society, facing significant challenges as they transition out of the care system.
By the age of 18, many are thrown into the complexities of independent living without the family networks most of us rely on.
Homelessness, unemployment, and social isolation are just a few of the barriers they encounter.
But with the right support, these young people can break free from these challenges and achieve incredible things.
That’s where Goal 17 comes in.
Their mentoring programme offers emotional and practical guidance that care leavers desperately need.
The programme provides a lifeline for young people who might otherwise struggle to find their way, empowering them to build brighter futures.
What’s more, you don’t need any prior mentoring experience to get involved.
All it takes is a kind heart, a listening ear, and a willingness to share your own life experiences.
As Rachel Newell, one of Goal 17’s dedicated mentors, puts it: "I feel privileged to be part of this programme.
It’s been an incredible journey meeting my mentee, an inspiring individual who I can support as they face the challenges of stepping into the real world without much guidance or support." Become a Beacon of Hope Imagine being the beacon of hope for a young person who has no one else to turn to.
Goal 17 is calling on the Southampton community to come together and make a lasting impact on the lives of www.goal17.global local care leavers.
This is more than just volunteering; it’s about building relationships that can change lives and ripple through the community for generations.
Mentors play a crucial role in helping care leavers build confidence, set goals, and navigate the often overwhelming journey into adulthood.
With just 1-2 hours of your time each month, you can offer the support that makes all the difference.
Brian Hammersley, another passionate mentor, reflects on the profound impact of this work: "Mentorship is more than just guidance – it’s about giving someone the confidence to dream big and the tools to achieve those dreams." The need is great, but the rewards are even greater.
The young people you’ll meet through this programme are among the most resilient and determined individuals you’ll ever encounter.
With the right support, they can break the cycles of disadvantage and achieve incredible things.
Ross MacLennan, another Goal 17 mentor, shares: "I’ve watched my mentee go from doubting themselves to applying for college and securing a parttime job.
The impact of mentorship can’t be overstated." A City of Opportunity for All Goal 17’s expansion to Southampton is a powerful call to action.
The city has an opportunity to become a place where every young person, regardless of their background, has the support they need to thrive.
By volunteering as a mentor, you’ll be helping to build a more inclusive and supportive community – one where care leavers are empowered to overcome their challenges and achieve their full potential.
Goal 17’s founder, Fran Boorman, emphasises the importance of community involvement: "We’re looking for volunteers who want to be part of something truly special.
This is your chance to make a difference that will ripple through our community for generations." Join the Movement – Become a Mentor Today Are you ready to make a real difference? By becoming a mentor with Goal 17, you’ll be joining a growing movement that’s transforming lives across the UK.
Together, we can create a brighter future for Southampton’s care leavers, one filled with opportunity, hope, and support.
And we’re not doing it alone.
Voice FM is also getting behind this exciting project and helping promote it to the local community.
Xan Phillips from Voice FM explains how they are helping inspire future volunteers from across the city and surrounding areas:
"Voice FM is also getting behind this exciting project and helping promote it to the local community. Voice FM station manager Xan Phillips explains how they are helping inspire future volunteers from across the city and surrounding areas:
"Since the pandemic local radio has become the word of mouth of most cities, especially in Southampton and we'll be able help Goal 17 reach a variety of communities with a 30 second promo, alongside a blog and social media posts."
To learn more or sign up, visit www.careleavermentoring.co.uk or email mentors@goal17.global for more information.
