We do things differently here: why I’ve joined Manchester Cares

Please note: this post is 88 months old and The Cares Family is no longer operational. This post is shared for information only

In her first blog, our new Programmes Coordinator Kathryn writes about why she’s so excited to join Manchester Cares…

Anyone who knows me will have heard me say “Manchester is the greatest city in the world!” I moved around during my late teens and early twenties but I always come home.

We’re famous for our music, fashion and football. We’ve driven advancements in science, transport and industry. We’ve led political, social and cultural movements. We gave birth to the railways, M&S and the first computers.

Famous Mancunians include Emmeline Pankhurst, Anthony Burgess, L.S. Lowry, Caroline Aherne, John Ryland, Alan Turing, Tony Wilson, Ian Curtis, Noel Gallagher... I could go on.

Amongst all these famous faces, the city is also home to my most notable Mancunian, the person who makes it home for me, my nana Viv. Vivacious Viv is always there for me through changes, challenges and celebrations within my career, friendships and relationships. She is my constant.

We scour the Arndale for the perfect winter coat together, spend rainy afternoons tucked away in cafes on Deansgate, and spend our Sundays searching for the best brunch or lunch in the Northern Quarter.

We’ve donned superhero costumes aboard Manchester Pride floats, danced the night away in Turkish bars, and helped our community together in times of sadness. 

I have watched my nana do so much for others; and when my grandad passed away her community stood with her. This was of great comfort but eventually, as is always the case with grief, most of these wonderful people returned to their normal lives.

Nana always says that Sunday is her loneliest day. If no one calls or we can’t spend time with her it provides a reminder that her world has changed.

As I’ve got older I’ve realised that this has become the case for me too. My life has at times been challenging and I’d have struggled without nana's wisdom to navigate my way through my week. 

So most Sundays we get the tram into town to explore, laugh and live! She says I “keep her young”. And she helps me find perspective when life feels unexpected or out of my control. 

That’s why I’m thrilled to have joined Manchester Cares as Programme Coordinator, and why I’m so passionate about growing this community network of young professionals and older neighbours hanging out and helping one another in our rapidly changing city. 

I want other young professionals in Manchester who might not have that type of friendship in their lives to share what I do with Vivacious Viv, and to be part of the community.