Schools Navigators

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Wingman Mentors is working within six schools across Bedfordshire with an Early Intervention Schools Navigator program specified and commissioned by Bedfordshire Violence and Exploitation Reduction Unit (VERU). 

This initiative is designed to support students at risk of permanent exclusion, helping them find positive pathways and avoid involvement in criminal activities.

Goals:

1. Preventing Permanent Exclusion: By addressing the underlying issues that lead to negative behaviors, the program aims to keep students engaged in their education.
2. Holistic Support: Working closely with students, families, carers, and professionals, we provide comprehensive support to address socio-economic challenges, mental health issues, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
3. Early Intervention: Recognising and addressing problems early can prevent more serious issues later. This proactive approach is key to fostering long-term positive outcomes.

Strategies:

• Mentoring: One-on-one sessions with mentors help students develop coping mechanisms, improve their emotional regulation, and build social skills.
• Collaboration: By working with a network of professionals including teachers, social workers, and community leaders, we ensure a coordinated and effective approach to each student's needs.

The holistic and trauma-informed approach ensures that interventions are not just reactive but also preventative, addressing the root causes of issues that students face.

• Trauma-Informed Care and support: Understanding and addressing trauma helps students feel safer and more supported, which is crucial for their development.
• Holistic Support: Addressing multiple facets of a student's life ensures that interventions are comprehensive and effective.
• Lived Experience: Mentors with lived experiences of ACEs provide relatable and impactful guidance, creating trust and engagement from students.