---
title: My role as a shadow
description: What do I do? where do I fit? What's expected of me?
---

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1. [Help Center](https://faq.mentell.org.uk/migration/en/knowledge?hsLang=en)
2. [Shadow](https://faq.mentell.org.uk/migration/en/knowledge/shadow?hsLang=en)
3. [Fundamentals](https://faq.mentell.org.uk/migration/en/knowledge/shadow?hsLang=en#fundamentals)

# My role as a shadow

## What do I do? where do I fit? What's expected of me?

![The Circle-22](https://faq.mentell.org.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/The%20Circle-22.jpg?width=688&height=688&name=The%20Circle-22.jpg)

#### Length: 5 mins

#### Format: Video

   
In this short video, Nick will explain the role of the shadow facilitator.  
<https://share.vidyard.com/watch/eQzbNU7gtpRDeAtTsBafAy?>

[![My role as a shadow](https://cdn.vidyard.com/thumbnails/S7BF1eruwTl_YAb0GVsRBg/489264bede3ebd4ebe2d92_play_button_small.jpg)](https://share.vidyard.com/watch/eQzbNU7gtpRDeAtTsBafAy?)

 

[My role as a shadow](https://share.vidyard.com/watch/eQzbNU7gtpRDeAtTsBafAy?)

Shadowing in the circle is the first step to becoming a Mentell facilitator - a role built upon  
learning through your first-hand, direct experience. Even though you are now a part of the  
facilitation team, it is important to remember that you are a member first and foremost. This means showing up authentically, sharing your experiences and genuinely expressing your feelings. Never underestimate the power of sharing your story; often, this helps set the  
scene for our members to find the courage to share theirs too.

 

You must familiarise yourself with the [7 Principles](https://www.mentell.org.uk/learn/the-7-principles)and seek to understand how they create a safe container for circle members to show their vulnerability. Too often in life, we are bombarded with well-meaning advice from family and friends and are never allowed to find our own answers deep down.

Due to the stigma that sadly still surrounds men’s mental health, men often refrain  
from sharing their feelings out of fear of being judged. Therefore learning how to be fully  
present when listening and responding to members in a way free from advice and  
judgement is essential.

 

We don’t expect you to grasp these skills instantaneously but rather to be mindful of men's challenges in opening up. We also encourage you to take the opportunity that shadowing presents to observe the skills of our facilitators in action.

At Mentell, we believe in continuous growth and development and encourage your  
insight, questions and feedback. Don’t hesitate to speak up after the circle or schedule some  
time to discuss further with your mentor.

 

**Next Steps:**  Complete the fundamental online training 

 

- [Shadow](https://faq.mentell.org.uk/migration/en/knowledge/shadow?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [Safeguarding](https://faq.mentell.org.uk/migration/en/knowledge/shadow?hsLang=en#safeguarding)
    - [Fundamentals](https://faq.mentell.org.uk/migration/en/knowledge/shadow?hsLang=en#fundamentals)
    - [Further learning](https://faq.mentell.org.uk/migration/en/knowledge/shadow?hsLang=en#further-learning)
- [Support](https://faq.mentell.org.uk/migration/en/knowledge/support?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [Fundamentals](https://faq.mentell.org.uk/migration/en/knowledge/support?hsLang=en#fundamentals)

- [Default HubSpot Blog (test)](https://blog.mentell.org.uk/test2)

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