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The Student Support Mentoring Project, established in 2001 at Staffordshire University, aims to support disabled undergraduates in their preparation for life after graduation. By matching students with a mentor from the local business community, we hope to provide students with positive role models and offer all of those involved a chance to learn about disability, higher education and employment.
We currently have 18 students paired with a mentor. Each agreed within the early stages of the mentoring relationship exactly what objectives they wish to work towards. This was established using a pro-forma called a "learning contract" which helps participants to identify their goals and boundaries. This pro-forma was included in the "Mentoring Guidebook" which was issued to all participants with a profile of their mentor or mentee. All information related to the project is available in alternative formats.
Events
We held our introduction event in October, attended by the Deputy Vice Chancellor and several guests. Here, we arranged to make introductions for mentors and mentees and provide free time for general socialising and discussion.
Most project participants have now received Disability Awareness Training and Induction training. This includes work on communication skills, how to set effective objectives, contracting and understanding what mentoring involves. We intend to run a "mop-up" session to involve those unable to attend previous sessions.
We have another event in December which will allow evaluation of the project's progress as well as social time for participants.
Use of IT
Following successful appointment of our Information Technology Support Worker, we have also launched our web-site www.staffs.ac.uk/ssmp. Documentation and further details can be obtained from here. There is a link onto our email discussion list, which was created to provide support and focus for all participants. Those registered in the group can read and post messages to the list on whatever subject they choose and recipients can reply, offering information and/or suggestions.
Other activities
Our promotional activities have included a poster and flyer campaign. We will now be focusing on our dissemination of activities as well as continuing to provide the support for participants needed. We will also concentrate on evaluation and a consideration of how the project may be continued in the future.
If you are interested in participating or would like further information, please feel free to contact -
Jill Allen (Project Co-ordinator)
Staffordshire University
Student Support Mentoring Project (for Students with a Disability)
Cadman Building
College Road
Stoke on Trent. ST4 2DE
Direct line 01782 295766 E-mail Jill.Allen@staffs.ac.uk
© 2001
