We were delighted to recently host an inspiring and heartening event in partnership with the National Leadership Network (NLN) — marking the first step in an exciting new mentoring initiative at Harmeny.
As part of a wider project to establish a peer mentoring scheme, the event brought together care-experienced young leaders from NLN and some of our secondary-aged pupils. Through powerful storytelling and honest conversations, NLN members shared their journeys, discussed the challenges they have overcome, and spoke candidly about their hopes for the future.
The session was an incredibly moving experience for everyone involved. Our young people were not only able to ask questions but also see tangible examples of resilience, ambition, and strength. Listening to those who have walked a similar path helped to spark meaningful reflection and connection and inspire a strong sense of possibility.
A connection for adults and young people
Alongside the storytelling, pupils engaged in activities centered on visualising their future and thinking ahead to life after Harmeny — a crucial step in empowering them to shape their journeys with confidence.
One of the most touching aspects of the event was the feedback from NLN members themselves:
”“Personally I was blown away by the time with you all. It feels like a special place.”
Our care and education team reflected on the session’s impact, highlighting the strength of hearing directly from those with lived experience. They praised the NLN speakers for helping our pupils better understand the importance of accepting support and believing in their potential.
Voices that inspire
This event was not only a success in its own right but also a powerful foundation for what’s to come. We are now working closely with NLN and other organisations to develop a formal peer mentoring program, which will shine a spotlight on the voice of experience through those with care experience supporting our children as they move through care and transition into adulthood.
NLN will also be delivering training to our staff team in August, focused on the vital role of unconditional, lasting relationships in the lives of care-experienced young people — a cornerstone of Harmeny’s approach.
This was just the beginning. We’re excited to continue building on this momentum and to create further opportunities that place the voices of care-experienced individuals at the heart of our work.
Mentoring and Here4U
Mentoring – in both individual and group settings – plays a vital role in the Here4U project because of its powerful role in transforming young lives—especially those who are care-experienced or navigating difficult circumstances. By offering steady, compassionate guidance, mentors help build confidence, nurture resilience, and open up new pathways in education and employment. Whether it’s inspiring self-belief, supporting personal growth, or nurturing potential -with a proven track record-mentoring creates meaningful connections that lead to brighter, more hopeful futures.
