GM Age UK Collective

Meet the Collective: The Local Age UKs Joining Forces for Greater Manchester’s Older People 

A group of local Age UK charities across Greater Manchester have come together to form the Age UK Greater Manchester Collective — a bold new partnership working to ensure every older person in the region can age well. 

Each charity remains independent and rooted in its local community, but by uniting as a Collective, they can speak with one voice, share resources, and tackle some of the biggest issues facing older people today — from rising energy bills to loneliness and health inequalities. 

And the impact is already significant: 

• Together, the Collective brings in over £12 million per year to the Greater Manchester economy 

• Nearly £5 million per year goes directly into the pockets of older people, through the benefits they’re supported to access 

• The group employs 280 staff and is powered by 445 amazing volunteers who make the work possible 

The Collective is working across Greater Manchester, delivering practical support that improves lives and creates a more age-friendly city region — whether that’s helping someone stay warm in winter, access transport, or rebuild confidence after a fall. 

“This isn’t about merging or losing our local identities,” said Lauren McKechnie, CEO of Age UK Bolton and Chair of the Age UK Greater Manchester Collective. “We’re still your local Age UK — part of your community. But by coming together like this, we can reach further, act faster, and stand stronger for the people we’re here to support.” 

The partnership is already working alongside Greater Manchester Combined Authority, NHS bodies, community groups and businesses — making it easier for organisations to collaborate, innovate, and invest in older people’s wellbeing. 

“We know the pressures people are under,” Lauren continued. “But we also know the power of people working together — and that’s what the Collective is all about.” 

Emma Rose, Chief Executive of Age UK Salford and Trafford said: ““We’re thrilled to be launching the GM Age UK Collective — a powerful collaboration that brings together our shared commitment to improving the lives of older people. In Salford and Trafford, we see this as a real opportunity to amplify the voices of our older residents and drive meaningful change that supports their wellbeing, independence, and inclusion.” 

Together, the Collective hopes to reframe what ageing in Greater Manchester looks and feels like — ensuring older residents not only live longer, but live well. 

Want to learn more or get involved? Contact the Collective at info@ageukgmcollective.org.uk