Training provider appeals for mentors

Posted by on 18 May 2021

Are you a Rochdale employer willing to mentor young trainees looking to find out more about their chosen sector?

Rochdale Training is looking for employers to mentor people for an hour a month for up to six months or provide an individual with a short work placement to improve their career prospects.

Mark Whittaker, a skills advisor at Rochdale Training, said a good mentor could provide a life-changing experience for both the mentor and the young person.

“Employers have an ever-increasing aging workforce and need to start passing the skills on to ensure they remain competitive and retain skills,” he said.

“We can all remember that person who helped us on our way in our careers, a family member, spouse, teacher, manager or friend.

“No matter what you’re trying to do in your career, someone else has done it before us. Rochdale Training are looking for people that have something to pass on and promote the opportunities right here in Rochdale.

“We plan to start a mentoring group in July with full mentor training and the opportunity for mentors to network with like-minded Rochdale businesses.

“We’ll ensure mentors have all the information they need before being paired up with a local resident with several briefing sessions along the way to make the mentoring experience straightforward.

“There is also accredited training available free of charge including, mentoring and information, advice and guidance qualifications.

Two regular mentors for Rochdale Training have urged other business people to follow their lead.

Rachel Adamson, director of Northern Star HR and Wellbeing Solutions, said: “I have been fortunate in my life to have had some amazing professional and personal mentors who have inspired me, and it was time for me to give something back.

“I have enjoyed listening and gently guiding my mentee with career aspirations and confidence building. It is an hour or so of my month well spent and I am delighted to be part of this innovative programme.”

Daisy Silva, career broker of the New Pioneers, said:  “Mentoring is key to our project success to support Lower Falinge and College Bank residents to identify either their career or wellbeing path.

“We believe that if you find what you enjoy doing it is more likely that you will become more resilient and emotionally fit. The mentoring programme is a great opportunity for professionals to share knowledge with those just starting to climb the career ladder. 

“We need compassionate, kind and committed professionals that are able and willing to give back to those who are economically disadvantaged and need a chance.”

If you want to find out more contact Mark Whittaker at mwhittaker@rochdaletraining.co.uk or phone 07432 471 668.