About the Role

Age UK Manchester is looking for enthusiastic and reliable Volunteer Van Mates to support our collection and delivery service. This is a physically active role that involves assisting our van drivers with the collection and delivery of donated furniture, household items, and retail stock across Manchester.

As a Volunteer Van Mate, you will play an important part in helping Age UK Manchester generate vital income through donated goods, enabling us to continue supporting older people across the city.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the van driver with the collection and delivery of donated furniture and other items.
• Load and unload furniture, bags, boxes, and household goods safely and efficiently.
• Help move items into and out of customers' homes, charity shops, warehouses, and other locations.
• Ensure donations are handled with care and respect.
• Follow all manual handling, health and safety, and operational procedures.
• Provide a friendly and professional service when interacting with donors, customers, and members of the public.
• Help keep the vehicle clean, organised, and ready for use.
• Report any issues, accidents, or concerns to the driver or manager promptly.
• Represent Age UK Manchester positively at all times.

Skills, Qualities and Experience Required

We are looking for volunteers who have:

• An interest in the work of Age UK Manchester and our values.
• Physical fitness to undertake the moving and handling of furniture and other donations, collections, and deliveries.
• The ability to follow procedures and instructions.
• Good verbal communication skills.
• A high regard for Health and Safety standards.
• Reliability and the ability to commit to pre-agreed volunteer shifts.
• A positive attitude and willingness to work as part of a team.

Important Information

This role involves regular lifting, carrying, pushing, and moving of furniture and donated items. Volunteers must be physically capable of undertaking these duties safely. Full manual handling and health and safety guidance will be provided.

In Return You Will Gain

• Career, CV, and employability advice and support.
• A reference for future employers (subject to satisfactory volunteering).
• Reimbursement of agreed travel and lunch expenses.
• The opportunity to give practical help to older people across Manchester.
• Valuable experience working within a respected local charity.
• The opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends.
• Ongoing support, training, and guidance from Age UK Manchester staff.

Equality and Diversity

Age UK Manchester welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and is committed to creating an inclusive volunteering environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Interested in joining us?
Become part of our team and help make a real difference to the lives of older people in Manchester.