I have the privilege of working with young people in the Craven area, in a variety of settings including schools, colleges and community spaces. I meet young people wherever they feel most comfortable and are most likely to engage. My role is to provide them with the nurture and support they need to navigate the challenges of adolescence and address any underlying issues that may contribute to negative outcomes in the future.
The core of my work revolves around fostering trust and creating a safe, supportive environment. My engagement with young people is completely voluntary, meaning that they choose to come to me, rather than being mandated to do so. This voluntary engagement is key to ensuring that the work we do together is meaningful and effective.
Each young person has their own story, and my role is to listen and understand their individual needs and experiences without judgement. By working with young people in a supportive way, I aim to address the underlying causes of anti-social or destructive behaviours, before they become patterns that may negatively affect their future. Whether it is supporting them through personal challenges, helping them build stronger relationships with peers and family, or providing tools to help them to make healthier life choices, the goal is always the same; to empower young people to lead successful, fulfilling lives.
While the journey can at times be challenging, the rewards always make the work we achieve together so worthwhile. I've seen firsthand how small moments of understanding and support can make a world of difference in a young person’s life. It’s not always an immediate transformation, but with consistent engagement, many of these young individuals begin to show significant progress — improving their behaviour, building self-esteem, or making better choices in their relationships and education. I believe that each young person I work with has the potential to achieve great things and I am proud to be part of their journey.
Danielle Woolley, Change Direction Youth Mentor