Mentoring in de Jeugdzorg

Abstract

In this article the contribution of mentoring programmes that are used in Youth care is being investigated, as is the question which elements of mentoring programmes cause positives effects. Insight based on literature is being connected to the practice of mentoring programmes. This is done by describing three mentoring programmes: COACHING, Match and Youth at Risk. Then the conceptual foundation will be dealt with and its influence on the mentor relationship, the selection of volunteers and their training and supervision. In spite of the fact that results of studies into the effects of mentoring programmes are at times contradictory, it can be concluded that mentoring has a moderately positive effect on juveniles' functioning. In particular if a mentoring programme is used preventatively in at risk juveniles effects are found. The described Dutch mentoring programmes have some of the characteristics of effective programmes that have been presented in literature. Important success factors such as providing ongoing training, carrying out activities and clearly stating mutual expectations with regard to the frequency of contacts have been incorporated into the programmes. However, the systematic involvement of parents into the programmes, which was also found to be an important success factor, is not used on a regular basis in the described mentoring programmes.