She had begun contemplating voluntary work when, in 2014, a newspaper article prompted her to approach The Prince’s Trust about becoming a mentor – a role she says is 'fantastic'.

“Young people have their own challenges and many just need that little bit of support they can’t get anywhere else. I wanted to give them that, so I applied to The Prince’s Trust, had an interview at my local office and went on a mentoring course, which was really informative.”

Julie committed to working two days a month as a mentor, an essential role that keeps young people proactively pursuing their goals once a course has ended.

At the end of a programme I tend to be assigned to around four young people. They’re usually upbeat because they’ve just finished a course and it’s important to keep that momentum going. I help them with their CVs and encourage them to take that next step forward to achieving their goals, usually by enrolling on a college course or getting a job.

Establishing a rapport with her young people is important to Julie, so she liaises direct with the programme leaders and arranges to go in and spend time with the young people whilst they’re engaged on the course.

“Every young person is different and you never know what to expect, so you help within the parameters they give you. You constantly have to think afresh, and I relish the challenges it presents.”

It’s not just the interaction with the young people that Julie enjoys, it’s the rapport she has with her local Prince’s Trust office, and the support they give her.

“The team in Norwich are great and the relationship I have with them is part of what I like so much. They’re helpful and supportive and always available if I want to talk anything through. 

“Being a mentor isn’t a difficult role, and whenever a young person has a positive outcome or says ‘thank you’ it’s fantastic. You can’t help but share their excitement, and that’s when you suddenly think ‘Yes! I’ve made a difference!’

If you’re thinking of volunteering, please just pick up the phone and have a conversation – there will be an opportunity that fits for you.

But, Julie doesn't just dedicate her time volunteering to change young lives. She's also decided to financially support our work by leaving a gift in her will, having seen first-hand the impact our work has. 

“The pressure on young people is immense; there is a huge amount to deal with and, for many, it can feel very overwhelming. If I can help them get started in their career then so many more life options open up for them.

I heard that a lot of people intend to leave a legacy in their will but few actually get around to doing it. It was worth the effort as it is a comfort to know the things that matter to me are reflected in my will.

If you want to help a young person to re-write their story, consider leaving a gift in your will today.

Find out more