Let’s start the conversation and end the stigma attached to mental health.
At Mentor Scotland, we know that connection is at the heart of mental health and wellbeing.
We offer supportive, non-judgmental peer support spaces across West Dunbartonshire and Helensburgh (Argyll and Bute), where people can come together to share their experiences and speak openly in a safe environment.
We are rooted in lived experience. We are not a clinical service and we do not offer therapy or professional advice. We provide structured peer support built on respect, confidentiality and shared understanding.
What We Do
Mentor Scotland creates consistent, structured spaces designed to reduce isolation and strengthen community connection.
Our current activities include:
• Friday Evening Peer Support
• Men’s Talking Group
• Women’s Talking Group
• Monthly Men’s Talking Group – Helensburgh
• Health Walks
• Cold Water Therapy
• Free Community Suicide Prevention Training (ASIST and safeTALK)
All of our groups operate with clear agreements that protect dignity, confidentiality and safety for everyone attending.
We believe that when structure and respect are present, honest conversation can happen.
Why We Exist
Social isolation and stigma continue to affect individuals and families within our communities.
Mentor Scotland was created to offer a space where people can talk without judgement, listen without interruption and feel less alone in what they are facing.
We believe that open conversation strengthens communities and helps reduce the stigma attached to mental health.
Looking Ahead
Mentor Scotland continues to grow carefully in response to community need. We are working alongside local groups, charities and services to strengthen access to peer support and suicide prevention training.
As we grow, our focus remains the same — protecting the integrity of our spaces while building stronger, more connected communities.
Join Us
If you’re feeling isolated, unsure where to turn, or simply looking for connection, you are welcome.
If you want to support others and help strengthen your community, there is space for you.
Let’s start the conversation and end the stigma attached to mental health.
Get to Know Us
Mentor Scotland began its journey with our first men's group night at Ben View Resource Centre on 11th November 2022. A few men attended that evening, and the success of our first talking group set the tone for what was to come. Since then, Mentor Scotland has grown significantly, now offering several groups throughout the week, each designed to provide a safe, supportive space for people to share their experiences. We have expanded from a men's group to a peer support group for men and women aged 16+.
We offer a variety of groups designed to engage the mind, body, and soul, providing holistic support to our members. Our efforts were recognized when we were named Community Group of the Year at the West Dunbartonshire Provost Awards. We were also honored with the Citizens of the Year award, presented by the former Provost, Douglas McAllister.
Our founder, Jamie MacLean, was awarded the inaugural VIVA Third Sector Volunteer Manager of the Year 2024. He has also been nominated for SCVO Scottish Volunteer of the Year 2025. Mentor Scotland has been nominated for SCVO Small Charity of the Year 2025.
We are proud to have 15 dedicated volunteers who continue to grow with us. Through upskilling opportunities like Scottish Mental Health First Aid and ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training), our volunteers are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to provide the best possible support to those struggling with mental health. Together, we’re working towards better outcomes for all those who reach out for help, and we aim to keep growing and expanding our reach to support even more people in our community.