Volunteer mentor experiences of mentoring forced migrants in the United Kingdom

Tynewydd, Iona, Semlyen, Joanna ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5372-1344, North, Sophie and Rushworth, Imogen ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6381-3445 (2021) Volunteer mentor experiences of mentoring forced migrants in the United Kingdom. Refuge, 37 (1). pp. 38-49. ISSN 0229-5113

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Abstract

Research demonstrates the complex nature of supporting forced migrant populations; however, there is almost no research on volunteer experience of supporting forced migrants. This study explored the experiences of volunteer mentors in the United Kingdom. Eight participants were recruited from a single charitable organization. Data were collected using in-depth, semi-structured interviews, and verbatim transcripts were analyzed using Interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four superordinate themes emerged: “paralyzed by responsibility and powerlessness”; “weighty emotional fallout”; “navigating murky boundaries”; and “enriched with hope, joy, and inspiration.” Participants experienced a range of emotions as a result of their mentoring: from distress to inspiration. Findings suggest that focusing on achievable changes helps mentors. The mentoring relationship is hugely important to mentors but also requires careful navigation. The findings suggest that, whilst it is a fulfilling experience, support is required for volunteers mentoring forced migrants. The relative strengths and limitations of the study are considered. Theoretical implications and suggestions for organizations, clinical applications, and future research are provided.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: demography,cultural studies ,/dk/atira/pure/subjectarea/asjc/3300/3317
Faculty \ School: Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Norwich Medical School
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > School of Health Sciences
UEA Research Groups: Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Research Groups > Epidemiology and Public Health
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Research Groups > Public Health and Health Services Research (former - to 2023)
Faculty of Social Sciences > Research Groups > Migration Research Network
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Research Centres > Population Health
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Research Centres > Lifespan Health
Related URLs:
Depositing User: LivePure Connector
Date Deposited: 25 Aug 2020 00:05
Last Modified: 06 Jun 2024 15:12
URI: https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/76561
DOI: 10.25071/1920-7336.40708

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