This is a community based mentoring programme, matching a young person with an adult volunteer. Young people may be referred by other support services or their family may enquire directly. An assessment is completed with each young person and their family to set out their goals, and a compatible mentor is then selected to be matched to the young person. Matches meet once a week for an initial one year period and are supported by a staff member for the duration of the programme. 

To explore the research and proven impact of Big Brother Big Sister, check out our Resources page, where you’ll find key insights and real-life stories of mentoring in action.

The young person I mentor and I are still getting to know each other, and she was definitely out of her comfort zone at first. But she did brilliantly. That day showed her that I’m here to support her, and I think it gave her a better sense of what mentoring is all about.
Jenny, Big Sister, Co. Donegal

Adult volunteers who are interested in becoming a mentor undergo a rigorous recruitment and selection process to ensure that young people they are matched with are protected from harm.

How to Refer a Young Person to BBBS

Foróige partners with schools, agencies like Tusla, An Garda Síochána, CAMHS, and School Completion Programmes to connect young people (aged 10-18) with a mentor. Referrals help identify those who would benefit from extra support and guidance.

Referral forms are available from local Foróige Mentoring Programme Officers. Once a referral is made, the young person and their parent/guardian receive information about the programme. If they choose to apply, an assessment process ensures mentoring is a good fit. Each match is then guided and supported by a Foróige Mentoring Programme Officer.