Purpose of this role: Manchester - Safer Ageing and Community Engagement Volunteer (Manchester, UK)
Could you gift us a little of your time? If the answer is yes, we would love to welcome you Please read on to discover how you can get involved.
Our dedicated staff and volunteers work together to support older people across the UK. We hear from older people themselves, as well as friends, family members, professionals and agencies who are concerned about elder abuse and safer ageing.
As a Safer Ageing and Community Engagement Volunteer, you will play a vital role in helping us reach and support older people in Manchester. This may involve occasional travel to visit service users, offering support and guidance over the phone, and attending local events to raise awareness and connect with the community. Join a small, friendly, inclusive and welcoming team where your contributions are respected. We will value your time and offer guidance throughout your journey, making sure you feel confident in your role. Whether you are new to volunteering or bringing previous experience, you will find a place with us to grow.
What are we looking for?
* Kindness, patience and strong communication skills that help people feel heard and supported
* Reliability and a genuine interest in supporting older people
* No formal experience required—just a willingness to help
* A minimum commitment of 1-2 hours per week for 6 months
What you will be doing:
* Supporting older people from a position of trust, potentially managing a case/cases over a short period of time
* Making supportive phone calls and, where appropriate, home visits to service users
* Attending vibrant local events such as recruitment fairs, community celebrations and pop-up stalls to raise awareness
* Helping to build connections in the community and sharing information about safer ageing
* Collaborating with our colleagues to explore creative outreach awareness raising opportunities (optional)
* Keeping accurate records and sharing and handing over relevant updates with colleagues
This role is also suited to University students studying Health and Social Care, Social Work, Psychology, Public Health, or Community Development, though anyone with a passion for supporting older people is warmly encouraged to apply.
What you will gain:
* A chance to build confidence and develop valuable skills
* A meaningful role in raising awareness and standing up against elder abuse
* The opportunity to make a real difference in someone's life
* A supportive environment where you can connect and grow professionally
* Experience that adds depth and value to your CV
* A written reference after a minimum of six months of active volunteering
* Invitations to social events and celebrations with fellow volunteers and staff
How do we support you to become an Hourglass Volunteer?
* Volunteering travel and costs refunded in line with our Volunteer Policy
* A dedicated and clearly structured volunteer pathway
* Bespoke and manageable training before you begin your volunteer role
* NEW for 2025 Hourglass Volunteer Induction Training Programme – half day/online
* Ongoing 1:1 and group check-ins with staff and volunteers as required / to suit your availability
* Debriefing and wellbeing support available
* Join in with our Volunteer Retention, Reward and Recognition initiative
Criteria and Requirements:
* Minimum age 18 years +
* Application form and informal interview
* Two personal reference checks
* DBS/PVG/AccessNI criminal records checks (if required)
* (This role involves working with vulnerable adults. A DBS check is required, and it is a criminal offence to apply if you are barred from working with vulnerable groups)
We are looking forward to welcoming you to Hourglass (Safer Ageing).
For an informal chat about this role, please email or call:
E mail :
Job Type: Volunteer
Application question(s):
We offer remote training and ongoing support to help you feel confident in your role. Do you have access to a reliable internet connection, and would you be available to attend scheduled online training sessions?
Education:
GCSE or equivalent (required)
Language:
English (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Manchester
Job Type: Volunteer
Pay: £0.01 per year
Benefits:
* Bereavement leave
* Casual dress
* Company events
* Enhanced maternity leave
* Enhanced paternity leave
* Flexitime
* Free or subsidised travel
* Free parking
* Health & wellbeing programme
* Work from home
Application question(s):
* We offer remote training and ongoing support to help you feel confident in your role. Do you have access to a reliable internet connection, and would you be available to attend scheduled online training sessions?
Education:
* GCSE or equivalent (required)
Language:
* English (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Sudbury CO10 7GB