H

Being hope-enhancing is about believing in the young person, focusing on their strengths and efforts, gently triggering their sense of hopeful thinking, and encouraging them.

O

Being open is about being accepting, curious, and non-judgmental – being genuinely interested in, and led by, the needs and goals that matter to the young person themselves.

P

Being patient means continuing to be there and using gentle, respectful persistence to help young people keep working on their hope even when it’s difficult.

E

Being engaging means having a meaningful connection with the young person and working together.

F

Being flexible means using adaptability and creativity to mentor young people in the way that works best for them.

U

Being understanding means being sensitive and using empathy so that young people feel heard, validated, and respected.

L

Being light-hearted means being playful and active – using humour and fun, being willing to give things a go without taking them too seriously or worrying about the outcomes, and taking mentoring meetings outside and making them active where possible.