Ali's Empowering Journey with the Wise Group Community Mentoring

Community is not just what we do - it's who we are. In the spirit of fostering inclusive Communities, we're proud to share the empowering journey of one of our Customers who has benefited from the work of the Wise Group Community Mentoring.  

The 'Lothians Mentoring' initiative, led by The Wise Group launched in 2023. It is a holistic mentoring programme which helps Places for People Customers in all areas of their basic needs. We support our Customers through a relational mentoring approach to drive behavioural change to enable them to progress in employment, soft skills, and ultimately sustain their tenancy. 

Today we are sharing the story of Ali Abdulgalil. Our journey with Ali began at his local Community Foodbank, where his commitment to supporting others caught our attention. Recognising his potential for growth, he was referred to Wise Community Mentoring through his Housing Officer. Ali embarked on his mentoring journey in 2023, for a two-month period.  

Support Areas Identified and Action Plan Set: 

Linsay Robertson, Ali’s assigned mentor shared with us:  

“I first met with Ali whilst working alongside him at the Community Foodbank. Ali works there as a volunteer and is an integral part of the Arabic Community. He came to our attention as he is always willing to go the extra mile with our Customers, helping them out, especially with translations.” 

“After speaking to him it became clear he was a strong candidate for support on the Wise Community Mentoring and he was keen to receive support, so I immediately placed him through for referral to his housing officer.”

“Our first meeting unveiled various areas where Ali required support. From addressing an anti-social behaviour complaint to advice on energy bills and exploring training opportunities, Ali's aspirations became the focal points of our action plan.”

To build trust and a strong relationship, Lindsey arranged weekly meetings, based on mutual respect and honesty between her and Ali. 

“I engaged with him confidently by being honest and by sharing some of my own experiences with him. Our mentorship extended beyond conventional settings, enhanced even further while working together at the Community Foodbank.”

Linsay continues to mentor Ali and has referred him to various connections of support. 

“Understanding the importance of sustainable living, we facilitated Ali's connection with Home Energy Scotland, where he received personalised advice on maximising the efficiency of his solar panels. This not only helped him contribute to environmental efforts but also significantly reduced his energy costs.”

“As part of Ali's growth journey, we also facilitated his enrolment in Health and Safety Level 2 training. This wasn't just about acquiring new skills; it was a stepping stone toward personal and professional development, opening doors to opportunities that may have seemed out of reach for Ali before.”

And the team still keeps in touch with Ali to check in on his progress and understand if he needs any additional support. In a recent check in with Lindsey, Ali shared: 

Ali’s journey demonstrates the positive impact of The Wise Group Community Mentoring working with Places for People, and collaborative support services. This story highlights the empowerment of individuals like Ali and stresses the ongoing importance of Community support. 

#WeAreCommunity   

#CustomerStories