PROMISEworks Launches Targeted West Somerset Campaign with Rachel Gilmour MP

Yesterday (15th February), Somerset-based charity PROMISEworks held a meeting at East Quay in Watchet to launch a campaign to increase the number of active mentors in the West Somerset area, alongside local MP Rachel Gilmour.

PROMISEworks is a mentoring charity operating across Somerset. The charity pairs young people between the ages of 5-25 years with local mentors – assisting them with difficulties at school, home, and work.

Established in 2017, the charity is currently facilitating over 150 mentor-mentee partnerships across the entire county, with only 8 in West Somerset.

Yesterday, General Manager Ali Hart and Somerset Coast and Taunton Co-ordinator Sue Bill met with Rachel Gilmour MP, local councillors, stakeholders, mentees and mentors to discuss the benefits of the programme for young people in West Somerset, as well as how more mentors can be recruited in the area.

Following the meeting, Mrs Gilmour agreed to write to the education minister to request a meeting to discuss the merits of the PROMISEworks programme. She also committed to bidding for a Westminster Hall debate and an adjournment debate on support for mentoring programmes within the community.

Sue Bill, Somerset Coast and Taunton Co-ordinator for PROMISEworks, said:

“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Rachel and her team for organising such a successful press conference at East Quay in Watchet. As a West Somerset resident, I was especially proud to come together with passionate members of our community who share our commitment to building a brighter future for young people.

The event created a valuable opportunity to strengthen local connections, exchange ideas, and highlight the positive impact mentoring can have on a young person’s life. We are encouraged by the enthusiasm and support shown today, and we hope it inspires others across our community to step forward, get involved, and help make a lasting difference through mentoring.”

Local MP Rachel Gilmour said:

“Yesterday was a fantastic opportunity to share the vital work PROMISEworks does in the county with regional media, and to work strategically with local councillors and stakeholders to advance our mentor recruitment efforts.

I would like to thank the mentees and mentors for coming along and sharing their experiences – it was incredibly useful to hear from those who have been supported by the charity.

Sadly, there is a waiting list in West Somerset for young people to receive mentoring. You don’t need to be an expert to become a mentor – you just need to be kind, with a few hours spare each week. If you’re interested in supporting a young person in our local area, please email info@PROMISEworks.org.uk or call +44 (0)300 3651 900.”