Volunteer Hub
Digital Inclusion Volunteer
Organisation Details
On Top of the World
Sub theme: Culture, Older people, Science and Technology
Stellify Award: This opportunity is part of 'Make a Difference'
Organisation Description: Founded in 2015 by local residents Anne Finnegan and Tina Cribbin, On Top of the World emerged from a three-year pilot project addressing the pressing issues of suicide and isolation in Hulme's high-rise blocks.
Over the past decade, we've transformed into a beacon of empowerment, creativity, and community collaboration for older, marginalised residents in Hulme. Our model priorities putting their needs and voices first - the inbuilt trust we build helps us signpost them to services they may not access otherwise. Our focus has expanded to support all older residents in Hulme, especially around Hopton Court and the Aquarius Centre.
Our main session is on Wednesday’s at The Aquarius Center - we host a hot two course nutritious lunch, bingo, food pantry as well as drop in
sessions with people such as Virgin Bank, the local doctors, NHS, Police, Fire and even pamper sessions in the foyer. The aim is to have a weekly informal check in with our group, make sure they are eating well and to be a welcoming space where they can come, be heard and socialise with others. It has built valuable friendships between neighbours that would not exist otherwise. Our weekly sessions turn the Aquarius into the place to be if you're over 50 on a Wednesday.
Over the past decade, we've transformed into a beacon of empowerment, creativity, and community collaboration for older, marginalised residents in Hulme. Our model priorities putting their needs and voices first - the inbuilt trust we build helps us signpost them to services they may not access otherwise. Our focus has expanded to support all older residents in Hulme, especially around Hopton Court and the Aquarius Centre.
Our main session is on Wednesday’s at The Aquarius Center - we host a hot two course nutritious lunch, bingo, food pantry as well as drop in
sessions with people such as Virgin Bank, the local doctors, NHS, Police, Fire and even pamper sessions in the foyer. The aim is to have a weekly informal check in with our group, make sure they are eating well and to be a welcoming space where they can come, be heard and socialise with others. It has built valuable friendships between neighbours that would not exist otherwise. Our weekly sessions turn the Aquarius into the place to be if you're over 50 on a Wednesday.
Description of role: As a Digital Inclusion Volunteer you’ll support older residents to grow digital confidence in a safe, supported environment. The Aquarius Community Centre hosts weekly drop-in hubs in Hulme, providing a trusted space for over-50s (and all ages) to connect. Session hours are Wednesdays 12-3pm, with volunteering from 10am welcomed to help with set-up and lunch served at 1pm.
You’ll help with digital tasks: booking appointments, online banking, email, online shopping, and communicating with family and friends. You’ll also guide residents around key safety issues, including recognising scams and basic cyber security.
Training provided includes safeguarding, data protection law basics, confidentiality, and how to support residents safely while respecting their privacy and security. This role is ideal for students that want to build on their inclusion experience, communication skills and safeguarding awareness.
This role would suit someone with a fair level of digital literacy, but they do not need to be an expert. Most importantly the volunteers will be patient and support users to build up their own confidence and skills, avoiding doing tasks for them where possible.
You’ll help with digital tasks: booking appointments, online banking, email, online shopping, and communicating with family and friends. You’ll also guide residents around key safety issues, including recognising scams and basic cyber security.
Training provided includes safeguarding, data protection law basics, confidentiality, and how to support residents safely while respecting their privacy and security. This role is ideal for students that want to build on their inclusion experience, communication skills and safeguarding awareness.
This role would suit someone with a fair level of digital literacy, but they do not need to be an expert. Most importantly the volunteers will be patient and support users to build up their own confidence and skills, avoiding doing tasks for them where possible.
Skills / qualities associated with the role: IT Skills, Oral Communication Skills
Are volunteer expenses available?: No
Duration of role: Ongoing / Long term
Opportunity times: Wednesday Afternoon
DBS required: Off
Can reasonable adjustments be made regarding additional needs?: Yes
Is this organisation part of the Sports Volunteering Scheme (SVS)?: No
Minimum hours commitment: 4
Location:
Aquarius, 21 Eden Close
Manchester
M15 6AX