Job Description Summary

Frankston North, locally known as ‘The Pines’, has high levels of disadvantage, sitting within Victoria’s highest ranking postcodes on the disadvantage scale (Dropping off the Edge, 2015). Therefore many young people in Frankston North are impacted by poverty, cyclical unemployment, physical and emotional abuse, substance abuse, family violence and chronic neglect. The risks are high that without appropriate support, these vulnerable young people will leave school early, abuse drugs or alcohol and/or enter the juvenile justice system. We know if vulnerable young people engage consistently with a mentor over the long term, they will build resilience and self-worth; increase their capacity to develop other positive relationships; stay at school and contribute to their communities. This leads to long-term community benefits and transformational change like a reduction crime, youth unemployment and disadvantage (Big Brothers/Big Sisters, 2015). In response to this the Pines Salvation Army developed ‘Raven & the Wolf Mentoring.’ A small group mentoring network that aims to support young people to develop skills, gain confidence, have fun, make healthy choices and develop a sense of belonging and purpose.

A core value of the Salvation Army is to support the basic needs of individuals and communities. A Youth Mentor promotes purposeful, voluntary, relationships in which Mentors assist people accessing TSA services to develop a positive sense of self and connections within their community. Mentors engage in regular recreational activities with young people in a small group context to facilitate the development of a positive and constructive relationship. This reduces the isolation many people in our community experience following, rewards and engenders hope for a positive future and active engagement in the community. Safety and well-being of self and others is vital and there is a requirement to identify and report hazards and incidents.

Time and Roster Commitment • A commitment of 2 hours every week, after 3pm weekdays. • A minimum 12 month commitment

Key Tasks Key Activities and Expectations

Mentor Support Service

Build constructive relationships

Provide non-judgemental support with program participants and members of the community

Undertake activities that are appropriate to program participants

Promote effective teamwork, good relationships with service providers, program participants and members of the community

Be prompt, courteous and respectful when interacting with TSA staff, program participants and members of the community

Participate in site related activities

To provide crisis intervention advice and support

Actively promote TSA in a positive manner at all times

Punctuality and reliability essential

Assisting site Manager/Supervisor with other tasks as directed.

Confidentiality of information is maintained.

Accurate records/case notes are kept regarding mentoring program participants and shared with site manager/supervisor as required by law and TSA guidelines.

Participate in supervision, training and events as required

Provide information about the progress of the Role Model/ support person position

Seek guidance when ethical dilemmas arise

Maintain regular contact with your supervisor and actively participate in 1:1 supervision as required.

Participate in training and events as required

Provide Quality Customer Service

Exhibiting professional image of TSA, displaying professionalism and integrity at all times.

Accurate information provided to customers.

Refer people to appropriate Salvation Army or external services. Follow up with Manager if unsure.

Listen carefully, and acknowledge and refer concerns, issues or queries to Manager.

Maintain a Safe and Healthy Environment

Immediately report any health and safety concerns, notifiable incidents and near misses, to Senior Team Leader and ensure any hazards are controlled until rectified.

Ensure hazard, incident and accident form is completed when required in a timely manner.