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Volunteering

We rely on volunteers to help us offer vital services in Oldham. 

Why volunteer?

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, learn new skills, and support the work we do in the community.

Who can volunteer?

Almost anyone can be a volunteer. We have a wide range of roles which suit different people and different skills.

However, our volunteers must:

  • be sympathetic to the needs of older people
  • respect the dignity of older people
  • be friendly and supportive
  • respect confidentiality

How much time do I need to give?

It depends on the volunteer role you are interested in. Some people give an hour a week, other people do more.

What we can offer you:

  • initial and on-going training 
  • payment of out of pocket expenses 
  • regular support and supervision 
  • a chance to meet people and learn new skills 
  • involvement in the care of older people

Training

Every volunteer experiences our Welcome to Age UK Oldham training which takes a look at all the services we offer and the difference we make to older people's lives. We believe it's important for volunteers to know exactly how their time and energy is put to use. 

In addition to this introduction to Age UK Oldham, we provide all the training that our voluntary roles require. 

Safeguarding

As a volunteer you may come across situations where you think abuse is taking place.

For more information, download Age UK's safeguarding leaflet.

Safeguarding - it's everyone's business

 

Volunteering Opportunities available

Day Care Centres      

Help frail older people enjoy a day away from their own home at one of our centres, including Bluebells Moorside and Ashby House Royton.

Charity Shops

Assist in one of our charity shops by helping customers and sorting and selling donated goods. Our shops are located in Failsworth, Lord Lane, Lees, Shaw, Hill Stores, Uppermill, Oldham Town Centre and Milnrow.

Befriending Service  

Visit housebound people in your area, in their own homes, on a regular basis.

Life Story Visitors       

Spend time getting to know an older person living within a care home or community and record their memories for a reminiscence book used to improve their care and quality of life.

Life Story Typists        

Using written notes, simple computer programs and the Internet, design and put together a life story book for an older person.

Life Story Proofreader             

Proofread, check content and correct draft life story books typed by other volunteers.

Older Together Friendship Groups  

Help serve tea and coffee and support a friendly day of activities between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm at one of our centres in Chadderton, Hathershaw, Shaw or Royton.

Falls Prevention          

Meet and greet people and help to set up the room, take a register and serve soft drinks.

Men in Sheds

Help with individual projects, share skills, take part in social activities and support basic IT where needed.

Project Support           

Help with new community and activity projects and events, such as Just4Men, school projects and other events.

Technology and Us support 

Assist older people at our Chadderton centre with using tablets and laptops, including the Internet and Skype.

George Street Chapel - Support Volunteers and Actors    

George Street Chapel is a Grade 2* listed building with significant importance in our local heritage. Volunteers support guided tours, group activities, visitors, refreshments, event set-up, pot washing and cleaning up afterwards.

Enabling Connections            

A befriending project designed to help older residents rebuild confidence, reduce loneliness and reconnect with their communities.

 

Applying to Volunteer

Fill in our online Google form here or alternatively you can download and complete our volunteer registration form and return it to us by post or by email.

Volunteer Registration Form (PDF)

Volunteer Registration Form (Word document)

Return by post:

FAO Maggie Hurley
10 Church Lane,
Oldham,
OL1 3AN

Return by email:

Email: volunteering@ageukoldham.org.uk

Contact

If you have any queries about volunteering, do not hesitate to get in touch using the contact details below:

Maggie Hurley - Volunteer and Community Services Manager
Phone: 0161 622 9252
Email: volunteering@ageukoldham.org.uk