Inkpots Mentoring provides trusted, long-term support to young people across Mid Sussex. Established in Burgess Hill, our service helps build confidence, improve emotional wellbeing, and support better outcomes in education and life. We work closely with schools, families and local organisations to provide tailored mentoring support where it’s needed most.

With over a decade of experience working with children aged 10–16, Inkpots Mentoring specialises in supporting quieter, more introverted young people, particularly those facing disadvantage. Our one-to-one sessions are gentle, structured and purposeful – designed to build confidence over time and create a sense of calm, belonging and hope.

At the heart of our work is the belief that all children deserve to be heard, understood and supported as individuals. For some, mentoring helps with emotional regulation and friendships; for others, it supports re-engagement with learning, school attendance or a path forward after challenges at home. Our clients include pupil premium students, those with SEND and young people navigating change or trauma.

Inkpots Mentoring is proud to partner with schools, youth clubs, and community groups across Burgess Hill and the wider Mid Sussex area. We offer in-school sessions, out-of-school provision and bespoke support in partnership with local organisations. We also offer a limited bursary programme to ensure mentoring is accessible for families facing financial hardship.

Our approach is grounded in trauma-informed practice, with safeguarding and ethical standards at the core of everything we do. We are DBS checked, fully insured, and work closely with pastoral teams and safeguarding leads to ensure mentoring is safe, joined-up, and effective.

Founder and lead mentor Gill Pawley brings over 20 years’ experience of project management and youth development, including working with national charities and local schools. Her warm, calm presence and track record in building trust with young people are widely recognised across the area.

Inkpots Mentoring is currently developing a range of short courses and group programmes designed to help young people develop essential life skills. These include sessions on communication, managing emotions, building positive relationships and preparing for transitions such as the move to secondary school or post-16 education. All courses are age-appropriate, inclusive and shaped by the needs we see in local schools and communities. Our aim is to equip young people not only to cope but to flourish – giving them the tools they need to make confident, informed choices about their future.

We welcome enquiries from schools, funders, businesses and community partners interested in working together to support the next generation. Whether through commissioning sessions, funding bursary places or co-creating youth provision, we believe there is enormous power in local collaboration.

Inkpots Mentoring is proud to be based in Burgess Hill and part of the BHBPA network. Together, we can help young people grow with confidence, resilience and quiet strength.