A CHILDREN’S mentoring scheme aims to celebrate a successful first year by doubling the number of young people it can help.

Memory Makers, an extension of SMASH mentoring, based in Hargreaves Road, helps children aged between nine and 12.

Since launching, the group has seen adults of all ages paired up with someone to mentor.

They meet for a couple of hours every fortnight to help the children improve their confidence and self-esteem as they prepare for secondary school.

Lyn Hartman, from Memory Makers, said: “We work with schools to match children with a safe adult to form a trusting relationship.

“It takes time but we are really starting to see friendships blossom.

“If we can build their confidence at this crucial stage it will have a long-lasting effect.

“The children we support are not ones who are misbehaving but they are the ones who are sometimes the quiet ones at the back of the class who are struggling for one reason or another.”

Mentors meet the children after school and at weekends.

They are not expected to take the children on expensive trips, with a trip to the park tending to be a preferred destination.

Over the next 12 months Memory Makers would like to take on another 12 mentors and is appealing for suitable candidates to come forward.

Lyn said: “What we are looking for is anyone who thinks they might be able to spare two or three hours a fortnight to make a difference to children’s lives.”

The experience is not only rewarding for the children but also the adults who donate their time.

Volunteer Sarah Bryant, 63, said: “We do what the child wants to do and I suggest things we could try together.

"We did a craft session recently and she had to encourage me to get my hands sticky. Whatever we do we chat a lot about everyday things; it’s all about listening and building confidence.”

Anyone interested in volunteering and finding out more about Memory Makers can call 01793 729748 or email memory.makers@smashyouthproject.co.uk