Care experienced young people’s experiences of natural mentoring and trust in professional relationships

This thesis contributes to an understanding of relationally focused support for care experienced young people (CEYP), with attention paid to both informal and professional relationships.

Paper one presents a narrative literature review of nine studies examining the outcomes and experiences of natural mentoring for CEYP across all ages and care settings. Natural mentors are trusted adults from a young person’s existing social network, chosen by the young person. Across the included studies, natural mentoring was often reported to be linked with positive psychosocial, educational, and vocational outcomes, particularly during transitions such as leaving care or entering higher education. Mentors frequently provided both emotional support and practical resources. However, the overall methodological quality of the studies was low to moderate, with inconsistent definitions and underrepresentation of younger children. As such, these findings should be interpreted cautiously, and there is a need for more rigorous, longitudinal research to clarify the potential benefits of natural mentoring and to inform practice approaches that identify and foster these relationships.

Paper two reports an empirical study exploring how CEYP experience trust in relationships with professionals, outside of therapeutic contexts. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, five female participants aged 14 - 21 took part in semi-structured interviews. Four Group Experiential Themes were developed: I mattered to them; keeping it real through genuine connection; scars of betrayal; and shortchanged by the system. Trust was built gradually through consistent, attuned interactions, shaped by earlier relational harm and wider systemic conditions, and remained vulnerable to rupture. Findings emphasise the importance of trauma-informed, relationally attuned practice, supported by organisational approaches that enable continuity and meaningful engagement.

Paper three is an executive summary which aims to provide an accessible overview of paper two. The summary was designed for CEYP and professionals in social care, health, and education. It presents the research in accessible language, centring participants’ voices, and offers clear, practical implications for fostering trust. Four participants provided feedback on its suitability and accessibility. The paper will be disseminated to all study participants as well as to professionals and organisations who may benefit from the findings.