We are part of Student Action, which runs a huge number of student-led weekly volunteering projects and one-off events helping people in the local community.
The aim of the Intergenerational Projects is to create a space for the elderly to interact with others, especially to help those with isolation issues. In the past, we successfully managed to create an environment where elderly people could spend time together and enjoy parties, and film afternoons with the volunteers.
Following two years of inactivity due to COVID-19, the Film Afternoon initiative will resume this year. In order to provide the elderly with as many wonderful, unforgettable experiences as we can, we will be delivering as many events and activities as possible.
We will continue holding the customary sessions, such as the Film Afternoons and Dance Classes, that have been offered in previous years, as well as new events, such as Halloween, Christmas, Valentine's Day, and Easter-themed parties, as well as an end-of-year trip.
- The Film Afternoon project consists of a film projection (movies are usually selected by the elderly themselves) during which food and drinks are offered by the volunteers, which also spend some time with the elderly in the beginning and during the pauses.
- The Dance classes will include, as the title indicates, a dance lesson taught by a qualified dance instructor. There will be breaks where the volunteers will distribute refreshments.
WHAT IS THE PROJECT ALL ABOUT?
The Intergenerational Buddy Scheme is a remote, all-accessible way to support the older community in Manchester. Our primary aim is to help elderly members of society by providing a secure environment in which they can engage with others (in our case, student volunteers/buddies from The University of Manchester), therefore reducing the social isolation they experience.
HOW WE WORK?
After the student volunteers sign up to be a part of our project, we match them with their elder buddy based on their common interests and/or hobbies. The student volunteers will ring the elder buddies about once or twice a week, at days and times decided between the pair.
WHAT WILL THE ROLE INVOLVE?
We are now looking for volunteers who can provide a friendly ear and make a positive difference in someone’s life.
As a buddy, you would ring members who are assigned to you about once or twice a week, at times decided between your member-buddy pair, and have a casual, friendly conversation.
It’s an easy, safe way to befriend someone from the comfort of your own home.
We will also hold in-person events (once or twice a year) for those who want to socialize outside of phoning.
FAQs
-- Does this role require any traveling?
No, this is a completely remote role. You don’t need to be based in Manchester to participate.
-- I’m an international student, can I still participate?
Yes, but you must have access to UK calls. You can inform us about this in your volunteering application.
-- Do I need any prior experience/training for this role?
No prior experience is required. We are only looking for students with a friendly and enthusiastic attitude who can give some of their time to help the older community that may be overcome with isolation to stay connected to the outside world.
After you apply, you will be directed to complete 2 online training modules. They are very short and won’t take much time to complete. These are compulsory to complete as they will provide you with an overview of the safeguarding policy for adults at the SU and how you can help us create a warm, inclusive environment for everyone.
-- How many hours a week am I expected to do?
You are free to talk for however long you want but we encourage you to call your buddy 1-2 times a week for around 30 minutes at a time.
-- Do these hours count towards Stellify and Manchester Leadership Program?
Yes. We will be logging in your hours every week.
-- How will I contact my buddy?
Your buddy’s details will be securely sent to you. After that, you can contact them to decide when and how often you will be in touch.
-- Will my buddy receive my personal info?
We will not provide any of your personal details to your buddy.
WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR?
-- Willingness to befriend and socialize with others.
-- Good English communication skills
-- Active listening skills
-- Reliable
Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
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Afternoon | |||||||
Evening |
1-2 hours per week