Legacy
Jamie knows from experience that small acts of connection matter more than we realise. Jamie's blog about his friendship with David helps show the value of that connection and asks: what more can we do?
The Board of Trustees is deeply sad to share that The Cares Family charities will cease operating immediately, due to insolvency. We know this news is sudden and will come as a shock. We’re fiercely proud of the work of our charities in tackling loneliness and isolation across London, Manchester and Liverpool, and in supporting others across the UK to make a similar difference in their own communities.
Over the summer, we adapted our Social Clubs programme, so we could pilot Learning Month – a way for us to understand the impact of the programme and how to improve by collecting stories and feedback from neighbours through fun, guided activities.
Elda (87) chatted to her friend Laura (33) about how she got involved with volunteering and supporting her local community. The Love Your Neighbour pals also spoke about what their friendship - and regular catch ups over coffee and cake - mean to them.
There's so much to do in Manchester but it’s not always easy to know what's out there, and how to get involved. Our Outreach programme helps to remove barriers and anxieties that prevent people from finding opportunities for connection. Read on to get a flavour of outreach at Manchester Cares.
Getting to know an older neighbour in your community doesn’t just offer them the opportunity to reconnect with someone younger than themselves, it can provide you with a new outlook on life and the fulfilment of gaining a genuine, long-lasting friendship.
Our Desert Island Discs club has been running for 5 years this February. Find out why our community love it so much...
Hands up if you're living in your slippers this winter? Us too! Last month we hosted a 'Slipper Swap' Winter Wellbeing afternoon, helping to support older neighbours through the winter. We gave out warm items, including slippers, hot water bottles, blankets, hats, scarves, and gloves, and a hot meal. There were also stalls from community organisations, giving people useful advice on everything from energy bills, avoiding scams, and the opportunity to get blood pressure checks, Covid booster jabs, and walking stick MOTs.
2022 was a busy time for the Love Your Neighbour programme at Manchester Cares. Love your Neighbour is our one-on-one friendship programme, where we introduce a younger and an older neighbour so that they can share experiences, laughter and create a long-lasting friendship.
We celebrated our fifth birthday party in November and it was a biggest Social Club yet!