A befriending programme connecting people to alleviate isolation and grow friendship.

Alleviating isolation, building friendships and creating communities of support. So far, we have connected over 200 people for friendship. This supported 10-week program will introduce you to a new friend. You will be in touch via the phone whilst you build your connection and we will be in regular touch through-out.

How to access

Complete the referral form on our website: https://airtable.com/appYGupMlStcNMsjm/shrXNBYAGhWByHotw

Back on Track is a leading specialist provider of community learning and holistic support to adults experiencing multiple disadvantage.

This could be managing problematic drug/alcohol use, living a crime-free life, improving mental health and wellbeing, or finding a stable home.

Our learning centre in central Manchester offers a range of support and learning opportunities including employability, functional skills, creative activities, citizenship, life skills, and health & wellbeing.

One to one progression sessions help identify next steps and we have years of experience supporting people with convictions.

How to access:

Come along to welcome session on Tuesday afternoons at 1.30pm (OR) call one of our team and make an appointment

Homeless Day Centre

The day centre offers lots of different services including

- rough sleepers breakfast

- support sessions including (drug and alcohol support, mental health and NHS dropin)

- Volunteering

- Music

- Prayer

- Digital skills

- Clothes and food also available

See full timetable here https://www.barnabus.org/drop-in-timetable

How to access

Call the centre to book a session

Bolton Council website resource which provides information about:

• Volunteering (https://www.bolton.gov.uk/help-finding-work/work-experience-volunteering)

• Work Club (https://www.bolton.gov.uk/help-finding-work/bolton-work-clubs)

• Mentoring

• Courses / training

• Unpaid work experience

• Paid work experience

• Interview skills

Bolton CVS has multiple opportunities to become a volunteer. You can see the full list here https://services.boltoncvs.org.uk/list-of-opportunities

How to access:

You can express your interest as a potential volunteer by completing the volunteering enquiry form via https://www.boltoncvs.org.uk/services/volunteering/become-a-volunteer/#volunteer_form

A member of our team will get in touch to discuss in more detail what you are looking for and identify potential opportunities for you.

If you are interested in volunteering you can also contact us by emailing volunteering@boltoncvs.org.uk or by calling us on 01204 546060

Bolton Wanderers in the Community (BWITC) is a charity that uses football to support and engage people in Bolton. They work with various groups, including children, families, and individuals with disabilities, to promote health and well-being.

BWITC offers a range of programmes, such as sports coaching, educational workshops, and health initiatives. For example, they provide activities like after-school clubs, mental health support sessions, and disability sports events. Their aim is to improve physical fitness, build confidence, and create a sense of community.

Volunteering:

Additionally, BWITC offers volunteering opportunities.

To apply to become a volunteer simply complete the form via https://www.bwitc.org.uk/volunteering/

(OR)

Download the application form via https://www.bwitc.org.uk/volunteering/#download and return it by email sthomas@bwitc.org.uk or by post to Bolton Wanderers in the Community, University of Bolton Stadium, Burnden Way, Bolton, BL6 6JW.

How to access service:

Contact us today by filling out the form via https://www.bwitc.org.uk/about-us/ or alternatively give us a call on 01204 673 790.

The Booth Centre is a charity based in Manchester that supports homeless individuals and those at risk of homelessness. They offer a welcoming environment where people can access essential services and activities.

The Centre provides various support, including hot meals, showers, and laundry facilities. They also offer advice on housing, employment, and health. They organise workshops to improve job skills, as well as social activities like art and music sessions, helping people build confidence and connections.

Volunteering:

We are open Monday to Friday during the day, so are looking for volunteers who are able to help during the week.

Please email chris@boothcentre.org.uk for more information and to get started

How to access:

Contact Harris on 0161 835 2499 / harris@boothcentre.org.uk

The Bury Voluntary Community Faith Alliance (VCFA) supports volunteering in the Bury area. They connect people who want to volunteer with local organisations that need help.

You can view opportunities on their website volunteering page under "Role Search" or you can sign up to get notifications and apply to roles using the "I Want To Volunteer".

How to access

Visit the volunteer page on the Bury VCFA website to view roles and apply or contact the volunteering team on volunteering@buryvcfa.org.uk / 0161 518 5550.

The UK volunteering database, Do-it.life makes it easy for anyone to volunteer in their community. Do-it.life lists over 1 million volunteering opportunities that are posted by volunteer centres, national/local charities and voluntary groups.

How to access:

Charity organisations are required to create accounts on the website with enough information about charity events, their locations, time, and the type of help needed.

Volunteers are asked to create an account and enter their location and area of volunteering preferences via: https://app.doit.life/sign-up

Then volunteers are provided with matching events created by charity organisations based on the location. A volunteer can then select and apply to any of the events recommended to them.

For more information, fill in the form via: https://www.doit.life/contact

(OR)

Get in touch with us directly at hello@doit.life, and a member of the team will be happy to help you.

The Bristol Refugee Festival 2024 programme ran from 8th – 23rd June. The theme for the 2024 Festival is 'Home'. We believe that home is a place you should feel safe, welcome and valued. It is curated in collaboration with a variety of individuals, organisations and community groups. We particularly welcome those that have consulted with refugees and asylum seekers from the conception to delivery of the proposed activity or event.

This service is open to anyone new to the area but primarily focuses on supporting refugees and people seeking sanctuary. We will have interpreters, and support, with free refreshments, and visits from support services when we can. For people and organisations to share their skills, and chat to each other in a safe and inclusive environment. If you know of anyone who would like to come along, there is no charge, just let them know.

Inspiring Communities Together is a charity that focuses on improving the lives of people in communities. They work with individuals, families, and local groups to support social change and community development and offer volunteering opportunities in the community. The charity collaborates with schools, local councils, and other organisations to identify those who may need help.

How to access

Sign up for volunteering positions or become a member using the forms on the 'get involved' section of the website.

If you are working towards finding a job that’s right for you why not try Volition.  Volition is a friendly and informal 10 week programme that combines volunteering with job search skills.  We’re based right in the heart of Manchester and Salford, and you choose which  location is best for you.

How to access

You can get in touch yourself or ask your work coach or a trusted friend to do it for you. We have lots of start dates throughout the year. We are not a mandatory service and engaging with us won’t affect any benefits you receive.

Manchester Volunteer Inspire Programme (MCRVIP) can help you find volunteering opportunities to suit your skills and interests.

Anyone can take part, you don't need any qualifications to begin volunteering. If you do have any qualifications or experience already, or if you have an up-to-date DBS, please let us know when you register.

Some specialised volunteering opportunities require some qualifications or experience and you can search for those that suit you best

How to access:

Getting involved couldn't be simpler; you can create your very own volunteer profile and once registered you get access to a wide range of exciting opportunities.

Register via: https://mcrvip.com/index?newRegistration=true

Search for Opportunities via: https://mcrvip.com/index-classic

Manchester City of Sanctuary's vision is for every person seeking sanctuary to feel part of a supportive community that understands and welcomes them. Their mission is to make Manchester a welcoming place for refugees and asylum seekers.

They offer:

• face to face social sessions
• volunteering opportunities
• signposting to other orgs for support
• connection with local people and wider community
• accreditation for local orgs demonstrating work towards welcoming and removing barriers to sanctuary seekers

How to access:

Will accept self-referrals. If you’d like to receive updates about when we meet, our conversation clubs and activities you can get involved in, please sign up to our newsletter mailing list.

It’s very easy to do! Simply fill in your email and name details on this form: https://manchester.cityofsanctuary.org/newsletter-sign-up/</p>

Volunteers play a vitally important role across all hospital sites at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT). They help to support our patients and visitors, day in and day out at our reception areas and within wards and departments.

Who can apply?

We encourage anyone aged 16 onwards to join our volunteering community at MFT, which covers:

• Oxford Road Campus (ORC) – Manchester Royal Infirmary, St. Mary’s Hospital, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Manchester Royal Eye Hospital and University Dental Hospital of Manchester

• Wythenshawe Hospital, Withington Community Hospital, Trafford General Hospital, Altrincham Hospital (WTWA)

• North Manchester General Hospital.

How do I apply?

Please apply to the site you would like to volunteer at-

Oxford Road Campus:

Contact via services@mft.nhs.uk or 0161 276 5190

https://app.betterimpact.com/Application?OrganizationGuid=e6681261-11e1-439a-bfde-0069f9affc42&ApplicationFormNumber=2

Wythenshawe/Trafford/Withington/Altrincham:

Contact via Volunteeringcentre@mft.nhs.uk or 0161 291 2939

https://app.betterimpact.com/Application?OrganizationGuid=c063d473-026f-4c8c-83b9-5c352c388869&ApplicationFormNumber=2

North Manchester General Hospital:

Contact via nmgh@mft.nhs.uk or 0161 604 5892

https://app.betterimpact.com/Application?OrganizationGuid=373ef84b-0f76-4dd6-b9f8-ba67492b4fab&ApplicationFormNumber=2

We provide information, support and training to Manchester residents who want to volunteer and to organisations that work with or involve volunteers.

View current volunteer opportunities and apply for them via: https://manchestercommunitycentral.org/volunteer-centre-manchester/view-opportunities

You can tailor the search to your tastes to find the perfect role for you. Filter by your areas of interest, location, and times available. There is no way you won't find something you love!

Volunteer Drop-in:

We have a new drop-in set up, free for anyone looking to volunteer. Come by to have tea, biscuits and a chat with members of the volunteer centre team and learn about volunteering. We want to learn about you to find out what kind of volunteering would be best. The team will then sign you up on the spot to volunteering we think will suit you.

If you need extra support into volunteering, we are more than happy to help. You are also welcome to return over multiple weeks so we can continually support you with your applications until you have settled into your perfect volunteer role! 

The drop-ins take place: 

Every Tuesday

10am - 3pm 

Ground Floor, Swan Buildings 20 Swan Street, Manchester M4 5JW

NOTE: It is not necessary to book a slot, but if you would like to let us know you are coming, or to have a reminder in your calendar so you don't forget to come, you can book via: https://calendly.com/volunteercentremanchester-info/volunteer-centre-manchester-drop-in-clone?month=2024-12

A website for volunteering with services provided by Manchester City Council - libraries, parks, sports or with local community groups working with the council to improve services

How to access

Register as a volunteer on our website.

Moveable Feast caters for various occasion, such as such as conferences, AGMs, team meetings, weddings, or any other special event. Moveable feast works with amazing people who have been made destitute by the UK's asylum system. Our chefs are asylum seekers who come from all around the world. All profit we make goes into providing vital assistance to asylum seekers through our other services. Moveable Feast offers BHN members and refugees to connect with UK citizens, improve skills for integration and employment, and feel less lonely and become a part of the community.

Aims to help people find work and training opportunities

- Volunteering

- Job search and application support

- Courses / training

- Work Club

- Mentoring

- Paid work experience

- Website resource

- Interview skills

How to access

Complete the registration form on our website.

Action Together CIO is the infrastructure organisation for the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector in Oldham, Rochdale, and Tameside.

We connect people with what’s happening in their community, develop community ideas into action, strengthen local organisations, and provide strategic influence for the charity and voluntary sector. 

Membership of Action Together is free and open to any VCFSE organisation in Oldham, Rochdale, or Tameside.

Whether you’re a newly formed or a long established voluntary, community or faith group or social enterprise sector in Oldham, Rochdale or Tameside, you’re invited to formally join Action Together CIO.

Central resource and information website for job seekers in Rochdale.

Services Include:

• Volunteering
• Job search and application support
• Courses / training
• Unpaid work experience
• Paid work experience
• Website resource
• Interview skills

To Access:

To find out more information please email or call

We’re a charity providing opportunities for young people and adults to create better futures.

Our doors are open to anyone who wishes to contribute to or use the service. Whatever your issue or situation, we welcome you and want you to feel at home.

We offer a range of services including:

Targeted Adult Support Services – Intensive support to adults with complex needs facing substantial barriers to their full participation in society due to issues such as social isolation, worklessness, poverty, debt, mental health and offending.

Women’s & Survivor’s Services – Trauma-informed, holistic services with specialist interventions and peer support which empowers women experiencing complex and multiple challenges to progress and change. Key groups include female offenders and victims/survivors of domestic abuse.

Youth Aspirations & Opportunity – Social action and workshops that raise aspirations and promote social mobility for disadvantaged young people aged 8-25 including personal, social, employability and life skills

Targeted Youth Support Services – Early intervention and prevention with intensive support for vulnerable young people aged 8+ with emotional, social, behavioural needs and their families. Experiencing significant challenges and risks including: exclusion, violence, abuse, exploitation and family conflict.

How to access:

Call, email, web-form or service referral https://www.salfordfoundation.org.uk/contact/

Volunteer Centre Salford offers support for Salford residents, organisations, and groups whose services are for the benefit of the people of Salford. 

We work with voluntary, community, social enterprise, public and private organisations. We are happy to advertise volunteering opportunities from organisations outside Salford, that Salford residents would like to engage in.

To Access:

Get in touch - please book an appointment via volunteer@salfordcvs.co.uk or 0161 787 7795 to book an appointment

The Stockport Volunteer Hub connects local people with volunteering opportunities in the Stockport area. They aim to support community organisations and help individuals make a positive impact through volunteering.

The Hub works with various groups, including charities, schools, and community projects. They provide information about different volunteering roles available, allowing people to find opportunities that match their interests and skills. For example, volunteers can assist in food banks, help with community events, or support vulnerable individuals.

The Stockport Volunteer Hub helps organisations by offering advice on how to recruit and manage volunteers effectively. They may provide training sessions or resources to ensure that both volunteers and organisations benefit from the experience.

Overall, the Stockport Volunteer Hub fosters community spirit by encouraging people to get involved and contribute to local causes, helping to create a stronger and more connected community.

To Access:

Referrals to the Volunteer Hub can come from anyone interested in volunteering, including residents, community groups, and organisations seeking volunteers. The hub offers guidance on how to get started, including training and support for new volunteers.

Please email or complete this online form: https://www.stockportvolunteerhub.org.uk/contact-us/

Links to various services and advice available to Tameside residents and in Tameside libraries.

• Volunteering
• Self employment/business support
• Courses / training
• Work Club
• Job search and application support
• Mentoring
• Unpaid work experience
• Paid work experience
• Website resource
• Interview skills

Part of Inspire Middleton providing community based help and support to local people.

• Services include:

• Volunteering

• Work Club

• Job search and application support

• Mentoring

• Website resource

• Interview skills

To access:

To find out more information and to access services, please drop in, call or email.

Volunteering opportunities in Trafford and across Greater Manchester.

For more information about specific opportunities please use the search engine on the website. This will provide you with a list of roles, the relevant contact information and an overview of the role requirements.

We help to increase people’s employability prospects through our job club, training courses and Volunteering opportunities. Our volunteering programme increases people’s ability to participate in the wider community.

We help people get back into employment through CV writing, job search support, training, skills development, apprenticeships, and IT skills

We offer a range of volunteering opportunities at our centre, including administration, retail, catering, warehousing, fundraising, building and grounds maintenance.

Our Digital Skills and Employability register - which users must complete before proceeding with their activities instantly generate a report allowing us to capture detailed insight into our services users - which in turn allows us to further tailor our services to their needs. 

The system changes are important in setting the groundwork as we launch our formal Employability and Skills offer which will include our new apprenticeships scheme.  

How to access:

Monday to Friday by appointment only. To make an appointment please phone us or come and drop-in to visit.

We aim for half of our volunteer team to be BRR members, asylum seekers and refugees who use our services. We offer tailored training and support to member volunteers including support into employment. Speak to any member of staff at the drop in or get in touch by email.

At Aid Box Community we have a range of well-supported volunteering opportunities that help us support our services. Volunteering opportunities include a weekly shift in our Free Shop, helping at our groups, becoming a connection friend, and supporting fundraising opportunities and events. 

Our work relies on our volunteers!

We love their commitment, expertise and energy to welcome and support refugees and asylum seekers. Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds including professionals, retired people, students, refugees and asylum seekers.

We have volunteering opportunities for mentoring, english classes, marketing and fundraising as well as roles at our welcome centre.

How to access

Complete the form on our website.

Get Volunteering is a national directory which helps users to find volunteering opportunities. You can chose a search based on your skills, your location or area of interest.

How to access:

You can 'register your interest' in an opportunity, which will redirect you to the Community Support Action Volunteer (CVS) website to express your interest to the relevant organisation.

Our Welcome Centre is at the beating heart of BHN - a welcoming, intercultural space, where those with insecure immigration status and lived experience of being a refugee and/or asylum seeker can come and be part of a supportive, safe and cohesive community. The Welcome Centre is built around a delicious hot lunch, but also offers breakfast, teas and coffees, creative activities (games, art, music, sewing), English classes and even a barbershop! We deliver additional services in partnership with Herbalists without Borders, Ashley Community Housing, SARI and the mental health charity MIND. Our Advice Team (which offers case support work and advocacy) also meets with accommodated members at the Welcome Centre.

Our drop-in Welcome Centre offers a safe place for refugees and asylum seekers to meet and provides weekly community meals, signposting support and more.

Mondays 10-12: Register as a member, get advice, signposting support, tea and coffee available.

Social Space every Tuesday from 11am to 2pm: We have board games, art, laptops and a football table available to our members. A hot halal meal is served at 1pm. Our doors close at 2pm.

How to access

Drop in.

At Wigan Council we support volunteers to contribute to the work we do as well as help community organisations to recruit volunteers across the borough.

You'll find a range of volunteering opportunities on the Wigan Borough Volunteering Hub, where you can:

• Register and apply for volunteer roles

• Submit and advertise a volunteer opportunity if you're a community group