Ensuring that every child is given a fair chance to succeed, Chances Mentoring use the power of sport to tackle mental health issues in young people.

As a youngster, Callum was told he was a failure. Adults around him saw his tendency to misbehave in the classroom and calculated that because of this, he wouldn’t achieve in his future.

These words had a long-lasting impact on Callum, who vowed to never let another child feel this way.

So, after graduating University and heading to work with less-fortunate children, Callum founded Chances Mentoring.

“At Chances Mentoring we use sport as the intervention, because children are more likely to engage with it and it helps them to build relationships.

“Not every child is given a fair chance, so we help to give them what they need to achieve this.

“It’s important to tackle these issues earlier, so that young people get better chances in life to advance onto careers and learn life skills,” Callum said.

Combatting a range of issues including eating disorders, gang violence and abuse, Chances Mentoring help to open doors for young people and prove that the future can be bright.

"No child is a failure, and if someone sees them as that then I’d be questioning the professionals working with them.

“There’s so much pressure put on young people, many aren’t aware of how little comments can haunt children for years.

“They may not say how much a comment upsets them, but you will see it in their behaviour, and then it takes time to build their confidence again,” he said.

The building of these skills and relationships takes time, but the use of sport helps to speed on the process.

Heading into the festive season, times can feel increasingly tough for young people in hard situations. Callum believes it is important to enlighten children on the true value of Christmas.

“So many children locally won’t receive new gifts this Christmas. But it’s important to show them to cherish what they do have, it’s not all about what their friends get or being materialistic.”

As well as a mentor, Callum works as an online coach, helping to shape mental and physical health.

“My slogan is better mind, better body, because if your mind crumbles then everything else fails too.

“Motivation comes and goes for everyone but making small habits a routine is the best way to get started.

“Not everyone can get to the gym, but if you can put a coat on and go for a walk, you’re making a difference to your life,” Callum said.

Chances Mentoring are dedicated to delivering sports led therapy to children who need it most.

Callum is contactable on chancesmentoring@hotmail.com to find out more.

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