Who we are:

Manchester Central Foodbank provides emergency food for over 1600 people per month in central, north and east Manchester.

Want to make a difference? We have a rising number of clients needing help so we desperately need more donations to meet the need. Donation drives give us lots of valuable food for our clients and they are fun to do. It’s a great feeling when a generous shopper puts lots of goodies in the donation bin.

What are we looking for?

Someone with: 

● Good communication and interpersonal skills
● Empathy and an understanding of the challenges of supporting individuals in crisis
● Passionate about tackling poverty
● Reliable – with regular attendance, we work by a weekly schedule

What would you be doing as a volunteer?

In this role, you will play an essential part in ensuring that every client who visits our foodbank is not only provided with food, but also offered the opportunity to discuss any further support needs they may have. Within each foodbank session, our goal is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where clients feel heard and supported. As an Assist & Support Volunteer, you will have the opportunity to engage directly with clients on a one-to-one basis, providing a listening ear and helping to identify any challenges they may be facing beyond food insecurity.

● Actively engaging with clients to offer your support
● Triaging clients by asking basic questions
● Providing generic support and signposting information
● Supporting clients to fill in forms or access online information
● Referring clients to the onsite advisor

Benefits of volunteering
● Make a difference
● Meet new people
● Learn new skills

Impact of your role
● Ensuring the effective operation of your local food bank
● Helping to ensure a dignified experience to anyone visiting a food bank
● Providing support to help lift people from poverty

Support
You will be given all the required training and support before starting your role.
You will have a main contact throughout your time volunteering with Emily who is Bridging the Gap’s Foodbank Session Lead and Volunteer Co-ordinator.