Independence Mentors
Friendly social support from someone whose experience, skills and interests align with what you want to achieve.
Independence Mentoring
An Independence Mentor can spend time with you, accompany you and help you take part in the community—just like a social support worker.
Your mentor can also use their experience to help you learn, build confidence and work towards a goal that matters to you.
These stories show how ordinary social support can also create opportunities to build confidence, practise skills and move towards a personal goal.
Technology confidence
David and his mentor still enjoy their usual coffee and conversations during weekly social support. One afternoon, they used some of that time to practise making a video call. His mentor showed him one step at a time, then let David take the lead. Now he can start the call himself and stay connected on his own terms.
Everyday life skills
Mia and her mentor often go shopping and spend time together at home. This time, they turned an everyday support session into a chance to build a skill. They planned the meal, shopped within a budget and cooked side by side. With practice, Mia became ready to make it again with less support.
Community participation
At first, Noah’s mentor accompanied him to a local community group so he would not have to walk in alone. They explored the activity together and practised simple ways to start a conversation. Over time, his mentor stepped back. The group became somewhere Noah knew people—not simply somewhere he attended.
Employment pathways
During their regular outings, Priya told her mentor that she wanted to work one day but lacked confidence. They began using part of their time together to recognise her strengths, explore realistic roles and practise introducing herself. Her first step was not a job offer—it was feeling confident enough to apply for a volunteer role.
These stories are illustrative examples. Every mentoring relationship is shaped around the individual.
Find experience that fits your goals. Our mentor team will grow over time.
Finding the right mentor
We help match you with a suitable mentor based on your goals, preferences and the kind of support you are looking for.
Share your interests, goals and the kind of person you would feel comfortable with.
We consider experience, personality, language, interests, location and availability.
Start with a conversation and decide whether the mentor feels right for you.
People make technology useful
An Independence Mentor may also help you explore and confidently use technology that supports your everyday goals.
Explore Independence TechnologyStart with what matters to you
Tell us about your interests, goals and the kind of person you would feel comfortable spending time with. We’ll help you explore a suitable match.
Find an Independence Mentor