Become a YouCan Peer Mentor

If you’ve been supported by the YouCan service at The Matthew Project, you already know how powerful it can be to talk to someone who listens to what you’re going through.

Living with or being affected by a family member’s drug or alcohol use can sometimes feel lonely. But you’re not alone, and now you have the chance to help others feel supported too.

Peer Mentor Training - 25th February

We’re excited to be running Peer Mentor Training on 25th February for young people aged 13+ who are currently supported by YouCan or have been supported in the past.

This is your chance to use your experience to help other young people, while also building confidence, skills, resilience and friendships.

What is peer support and why does it matter?

Peer support for young people connects you with others who understand the challenges of having a family member struggling with substance misuse. 

When young people support each other, it can help them:

• Feel less alone

• Build confidence and resilience

• Feel part of a supportive community

Sometimes the people who understand us best are those who’ve been through something similar. That’s what makes peer mentoring so powerful.

What does a YouCan Peer Mentor do?

As a peer mentor, you’ll play an important role in helping other young people feel welcome in group activities.

You might:

• Welcome new young people to activities and help ease nerves.

• Take leadership roles during sessions (like helping lead games or den building).

• Offer reassurance to young people who feel worried.

• Share ideas to help develop and improve the YouCan service.

You won’t be expected to have all the answers, just to be kind, supportive, and willing to help others feel included. You will be well supported by the YouCan team.

How being a peer mentor can help you

Becoming a peer mentor isn’t just about helping others, it’s also a great opportunity for your own personal growth

Many young people find it helps them:

• Improve communication and teamwork skills

• Build confidence and leadership experience

• Make new friends who understand them

• Gain experience for college, university, or job applications

• Boost their CV or personal statement

It’s a rewarding experience that can help you grow.

Who can join?

You can sign up if you:

• Are aged 13 or over

• Are currently supported by YouCan or have been supported previously.

• Want to help other young people affected by family substance use.

• Are interested in learning new skills and making a difference.

How to get involved

If you’d like to become a YouCan peer mentor, we’d love to hear from you.

Speak to your YouCan worker, or email us at youcan@matthewproject.org

We’ll help you sign up for the 25th of February Peer Mentor Training.