City mentoring scheme opens doors for former foster kids

Businesses in the City of London are being encouraged to join a new mentoring initiative for young people who have been in care.

The City of London Corporation has launched Step Up Mentoring – A Square Mile Futures Programme, which will support around 150 young Londoners aged 16 to 30 by providing guidance, skills development, and professional networks.

Costing around £300,000, the three-year programme focuses on those least likely to access quality mentoring. It follows a study by the City Corporation’s Education Strategy Unit that identified gaps in support and will be delivered by OMG Education, an experienced mentoring provider.

Sessions will take place online and in person, with many face-to-face meetings held in the Square Mile, giving participants the chance to explore the City. Each participant will be paired with a trained mentor who will offer advice about how to overcome career and personal barriers. 

The programme was developed with input from young people with care experience, who stressed the importance of mentors being trustworthy and empathetic. 

Naresh Sonpar, chair of the City of London Corporation’s Education Board, said: ‘Every young person deserves the chance to reach their full potential, no matter their background. This programme will give those who face the toughest challenges the guidance, skills and confidence they need to succeed – and to see that the City is a place of opportunity for them too.

‘This scheme will make a tangible difference to the lives of people who need it most, giving them the networks, confidence, and life skills to thrive – personally and professionally.’

Alongside helping young people, the initiative is expected to reduce the estimated £2bn annual cost to the UK of poor outcomes for care leavers.

Jamal Miah, CEO and Founder of OMG Education, added: ‘At OMG Education, we see every day how much of a difference the right mentor can make in a young person’s life. This programme is not just about helping people into jobs – it’s about building their confidence, showing them that the City is a place of opportunity for them too, and making sure they know they have what it takes to thrive.’

Photo: David Monaghan/UnSplash

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