Background

Sanctuary in Chichester (SiC) came into existence in 2016.  ‘Sanctuary’ is a place of welcome and safety and our aim is to provide refugees and asylum seekers relocated to the Chichester area, with the best possible opportunity to settle, feel safe and become fully integrated into their new, adopted community.

SiC’s Pathways to Independence (PTI) programme is key to achieving this goal. Working alongside the PTI Project Manager, you will provide mentoring and oversight of adult refugees’ Pathway to Independence Plan, ensuring individuals are supported to progress through their plan, co-ordinating volunteer support where needed, helping to identify barriers, and ensuring regular monitoring and review. The aim is to keep individuals moving forward with their goals, building independence and integration into UK life.  

Where needed, you will also support the individual by completing specific tasks related to their Pathway to Independence Plan which may include:

  • Enquiries and signposting to other charities/organisations as appropriate
  • Supporting access to education, training and employment (ETE) 
  • Accessing volunteering opportunities
  • Accessing English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) or further education provision
  • Supporting tasks related to an employment opportunity, such as job searching, supporting application, preparing individual for interview
  • Completing referrals/signposting to other support services/organisations as needed and as identified by their PTI plan

PTI Mentors report directly to the PTI Project Manager. The Charity Manager has overall responsibility for all volunteers.

Key Responsibilities of a PTI Mentor

PTI Mentors are typically asked to commit to about 2 hours per week if possible to help (although this can be flexible and is negotiable):

  • Oversee and support individuals in working towards achieving their goals on their PTI Plan.
  • Monitor progress and identify when goals or actions may need review or updating.
  • Co-ordinate other volunteers to support specific tasks within an individual’s plan.
  • Encourage and motivate individuals to stay engaged and take ownership of their progress.
  • Provide regular check-ins to assess progress and identify barriers to moving forward.
  • Liaise with the PTI Project Manager and signpost to relevant opportunities, services, or volunteers as appropriate.
  • Maintain accurate notes/records of support provided and progress made.
  • Ensure confidentiality, respect, and safeguarding principles are upheld at all times.

Skills, Experience & Qualities Needed

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to take an organised, structured approach to supporting individuals
  • Confidence in co-ordinating tasks and liaising with other volunteers or professionals
  • Empathy, patience, and cultural sensitivity when working with people from diverse backgrounds
  • Reliable and able to take initiative when needed, while working within clear boundaries
  • Commitment to confidentiality, safeguarding, and equality of opportunity
  • Willingness to learn and adapt to changing needs

Training & Support Provided

  • Induction and training in PTI processes and systems, charity policies and procedures
  • Ongoing supervision and support from the PTI Project Manager and Charity Manager
  • Opportunities to develop mentoring, leadership, and community engagement skills
  • Annual safeguarding training and volunteer information sessions

Benefits of Volunteering

  • Play a key role in supporting individuals to achieve independence and integration
  • Gain experience in mentoring, coordination, and project delivery
  • Contribute to a meaningful cause and see the impact of your support
  • Join a supportive, diverse, and committed team

Role description dated: November 2025

Review date: November 2026

Reviewer: PTI Project Manager