In conversation with Orlaith, volunteer mentor with MSV (Dundee)

Volunteer Mentor, Orlaith, tells us why mentoring  can help you feel connected to your community in new ways as well as helping the mentee to get on in life.

The support and resources provided by the MSV team make the mentoring experience both fulfilling and impactful. I look forward to continuing my journey as a mentor with MSV and contributing to the growth and development of my mentee.

Our MSV project (Mentoring and Supported Volunteering) is part of the All in Dundee Partnership, a consortium of several local third-sector organisations working together. Each organisation brings its own specific employability expertise to support the local community.

MSV supports people in Dundee facing barriers to employment, helping them find jobs, education, training, or volunteering opportunities with local charities. Volunteer mentors play a crucial role in this. We were delighted to hear from volunteer mentor Orlaith about her positive experience with MSV. For Orlaith, mentoring has been just as much about building confidence and skills as it has been about supporting someone to get on in life.

“During my third year of university, as I was searching for opportunities to apply my skills and knowledge, I came across details about the MSV mentoring programme. The team communicated with me throughout the application process and ensured that I had all the necessary information and mentor training to support my mentee effectively.

I was matched with my mentee, a parent who was seeking that extra support to build her confidence. Over time, we built a great relationship meeting once a month for a coffee and a chat. We have learned a lot from each other and I enjoy helping her towards reaching her goals in life. For me mentoring has allowed me to build my confidence and further develop my communication skills. It has opened my eyes to the reality of the challenges parents face when trying to manage work and family life.”

Orlaith feels very positive about her volunteer experience with MSV, highly recommending it to other people in the area who would like to make a difference.

“I would highly recommend becoming a mentor with MSV to anyone who is passionate about making a positive impact and helping others realise their full potential. Volunteering to be a mentor can help you feel connected to your community in new ways and connect you with other volunteer mentors on the programme.

The support and resources provided by the MSV team make the mentoring experience both fulfilling and impactful. I look forward to continuing my journey as a mentor with MSV and contributing to the growth and development of my mentee.”

Mentoring offers a flexible and fulfilling way to volunteer that fits around people’s schedules. Volunteering Matters provides various opportunities for volunteer mentors, including MSV, with support from an experienced team and comprehensive training.

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