AN APPEAL for volunteers by a Worcestershire based charity has had a good response from potential applicants - but a distinct lack of enquiries from men.

Mentor Link appealed in your Worcester News for people who can spare an hour a week to mentor students at Worcester Sixth Form College.

The charity is hoping volunteer Paul Griffiths’ experience will inspire other men to get involved.

Mr Griffths has volunteered for Mentor Link in the Wyre Forest for four years and has supported many students during that time.

He currently sees five boys and said: “I got involved with Mentor Link because I wanted to give something back.

"Giving a young person just half-an-hour of your time once a week can make a lifetime of difference.

"Finding a common ground, such as sport or technology, is a great starting point and opens up communication.

"My mentees know they can talk to me about anything without being judged and while it sounds simple, it really helps.”

Claire Quinn, volunteer recruiter for the charity, said Paul was a highly valued member of the team and very effective mentor.

"Just this week I have received feedback from the mum of a 16-year-old boy he supports who lost his father.

"While this opportunity is open to anyone interested in supporting young people aged from 16 to18 years, I would welcome more enquiries from men.

"As an organisation we carefully match student and mentor and for this to be successful we need a mix of volunteers.

" Across the charity we have roughly a third male mentors to two-thirds female, but this is not the case so far for Worcester.

"I am hoping major sporting events such as The World Cup are not diverting men’s attentions away from making a positive contribution to their local community.

"Male mentors are vital for the continued success of the charity so please get in touch, as you can make a real difference.”

Successful applicants are requested to volunteer for a minimum of six months and all training and travel expenses are paid.

A Disclosure and Barring Service check is required which they will arrange - Mentor Link is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

To find out more please contact Claire Quinn by telephone on 07973 572768 or via email Claire.Quinn@mentorlink.org.uk.

Alternatively, log on to www.mentorlink.org.uk.