Volunteer Hub
Community Volunteer
Organisation Details
On Top of the World
Sub theme: Older people
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: Community Volunteers support the Wednesday drop-in session at The Aquarius Community Centre, a safe, welcoming community space in Hulme. Sessions run 12-3pm Wednesdays, with volunteering from 10am helpful for session prep. The project reaches 40-45 residents per week and delivers 4500+ meals annually with seasonal celebrations that include food, music and connection.
You’ll help prep, serve and clear away the free two-course lunch at 1pm, liaise with staff, support residents, and spend time talking and listening. This role is ideal for students who want to bring course learning and real skills into the community, such as leading arts or music workshops, supporting health initiatives, or offering hairdressing, self-care or sessional input, all ideas are welcome.
Personal qualities we prioritise: welcoming, patient, good listening skills, practical confidence, teamwork, reliability and warmth. Volunteering here builds student confidence, improves wellbeing and creates lasting intergenerational friendships.
You’ll help prep, serve and clear away the free two-course lunch at 1pm, liaise with staff, support residents, and spend time talking and listening. This role is ideal for students who want to bring course learning and real skills into the community, such as leading arts or music workshops, supporting health initiatives, or offering hairdressing, self-care or sessional input, all ideas are welcome.
Personal qualities we prioritise: welcoming, patient, good listening skills, practical confidence, teamwork, reliability and warmth. Volunteering here builds student confidence, improves wellbeing and creates lasting intergenerational friendships.
Skills / qualities associated with the role: Practical Skills, Team Working
Are volunteer expenses available?: No
Duration of role: Ongoing / Long term
Opportunity times: Wednesday Morning, 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: