Mentor, Human Services​/ Social Work, Community Support Services

The Senses Project supports young adults with with Autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing differences, and mental health needs to develop practical skills for navigating life independently. Through its Independence Support Programme, the organisation provides long‑term, person‑centred support over an average of two years, guiding clients toward independent living and work opportunities. The Senses Project also runs tailored workshops that offer social connection, shared learning, and short‑term progression toward greater independence.

Founded in 2018 to bridge gaps between children’s and adult services, the organisation focuses on helping young adults feel understood, inspired, and able to enjoy life while pursuing their goals. Its long‑term vision is to see inclusive, accessible support options embedded within education and social systems, including workshops across colleges and universities in Dorset and Hampshire.

As a team we work hard to keep things feeling relaxed, friendly, fun, and inspiring for each other. The mindset behind how we run is embraced and supported by a structure where we all learn and grow together. This also created a lot of opportunities to up‑skill, try new work, and take on more responsibility with different roles in the company.

The Support Mentor is a full‑time / part‑time, on‑site role based in Poole, working directly with young adults to build confidence, independence, and life skills. In this role, the Support Mentor will provide one‑to‑one and small‑group support, helping clients set goals, develop routines, and practice skills related to daily living, social interaction, education, and employment.

The Support Mentor will facilitate participation in the Independence Support Programme and Workshops, adapting activities to individual needs and preferences while maintaining a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment.

Key responsibilities include observing and recording progress, communicating regularly with clients and their support networks, and leading the plan alongside clients for their progression.

The role also involves promoting client autonomy, celebrating achievements, and contributing ideas to enhance services and create new opportunities for young adults.

Within your role you will have allocated office hours to manage support guides, risk assessments, reviews, assessments, and learn the wider running of the organisation.

• Candidates should possess strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills to build trusting, respectful relationships with young adults and their support networks.
• Candidates should possess skills in mentoring, coaching, and goal‑setting to help clients develop independence, self‑advocacy, and practical life skills.
• Candidates should possess skills in planning and facilitating group activities or workshops, including adapting content to diverse learning styles and support needs.
• Candidates should possess skills in observation, note‑taking, and basic documentation to monitor progress and maintain accurate, confidential records.
• Candidates should ideally have experience or knowledge related to Autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, and mental health, and be comfortable working in a neurodiversity‑affirming way.
• Candidates should demonstrate reliability, professionalism, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a small, values‑driven team.
• Candidates should ideally have prior experience in support work, education, social care, or a related field; relevant training or qualifications (e.g., health and social care, psychology, education) are an advantage but not essential.

• The current rate for our support mentors (post‑probation) is £13.75ph.
• Candidates will be required to complete a probationary period during which pay rates are: £12.71ph.
• We pay enhanced rates for Wake Nights, or Sleep Ins which occasionally may be required.
• Bank holidays are paid at 'Double Rate'.