THERAPEUTIC
MENTORING
The core of everything our mentors do is building respectful, two-way relationships with young people and their families. We believe that meaningful support begins with genuine connection. That’s why we work collaboratively from the start; listening first, building trust, and following each young person’s lead, before gradually adding challenge.
We use the PACE model (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy) to help young people feel safe, accepted, and truly valued. We don’t come in with a fixed agenda or claim to have all the answers. Instead, we recognise that young people and their families are the experts in their own lives. Our role is to walk alongside them, responding openly, being honest when we don’t know something, and finding solutions together.
Learning happens naturally when a young person feels safe and supported. That’s why we make the most of everyday moments to model positive social interaction and educational curiosity. Whether it’s through spontaneous conversations, planned activities, or just being present in the moment, we tailor every interaction to suit the needs and pace of the young person.
We support each young person as they explore new experiences, build confidence and develop a stronger sense of self. When they’re ready, we offer gentle choices and suggestions, with no pressure, expectations or hidden agendas.
All of our team is trained in DDP an evidenced-based approach rooted in attachment theory, intersubjectivity and the neurobiology of trauma. Our mentors include qualified teachers and other specialists such as personal trainers. All with rich experience across different settings, such as early years, primary, secondary, specialist schools, one-to-one tutoring and alternative provision. Our mentors include qualified teachers and other specialists such as personal trainers, all with rich experience across different settings.
We’re also committed to ongoing reflection. After every session, we take time to think carefully about what worked and what didn’t. We know we won’t always get it right, but when we don’t, we work hard to repair misunderstandings and move forward with honesty and care. All of our mentors also have regular supervision with their line manager, providing an opportunity for collaborative reflection, support and ideas for next steps.
We accept and support young people exactly as they are. That means validating their feelings, not dismissing them, and helping them work through challenges at their own pace. Our approach is rooted in empathy and acceptance. We understand that families and young people are not always understood or given the right support at the right time. ATTACH-Manchester are here to support young people, and their families, to flourish and reach their full potential.