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Step Into Something Meaningful
There is something powerful about walking into a space where people know your name, where you feel part of something bigger, and where your time actually makes a difference. Volunteering at Transcend is not just about keeping things ticking behind the scenes. It is about being part of a warm, welcoming, community-led environment where every small task supports something much bigger.
Whether you are in the shop at Eccles or FLOW, or working in the café at Eccles, you are helping hold space for real people with real needs. You are making it possible for Transcend to offer inclusive, accessible wellbeing support in Eccles, Salford, and Manchester. And you are doing it alongside a team of people who genuinely care.
What Volunteering Looks Like
Volunteers support two main areas:
The Café at Eccles
This is a cosy, community-focused café where volunteers serve drinks, prepare simple food, and offer a friendly face to anyone who walks through the door. The café is a hub of connection. People come here not just for food, but for conversation, warmth, and a moment of peace. As a volunteer, you help create that atmosphere.
The Crystal Shops in Eccles and Salford Quays
You will be behind the counter welcoming customers, chatting about products, learning about crystals, and helping people feel at home. Whether someone is new to the space or a regular popping in for a chat, volunteers help keep the shop running and full of good energy.
Volunteers usually commit to around eight hours a week, typically over one or two shifts. You will receive training, regular support, and plenty of flexibility. We know that life can be unpredictable, and we will always do our best to work with your needs.
Why People Volunteer
Volunteering is not just about helping others. It can also be a huge support to your own wellbeing. The structure, routine, and connection that come with volunteering at Transcend can help people feel more confident, more grounded, and more like themselves again. Being part of something that matters, and being surrounded by a team that wants you to thrive, can make a real difference.
You do not need to have experience. You do not need to be a wellbeing expert. You just need to be kind, curious, and open to meeting people from all walks of life.
Gord’s Experience: From Nervous Volunteer to Community Facilitator
Starting Out in the Café
Gord began their journey at Transcend by volunteering in the café at Eccles. They were already spending time in the space and wanted to feel more involved, more connected. Volunteering gave them a reason to be present in a more intentional way.
“I was quite nervous when I started. I did not know what to expect, and I think I had that thing a lot of people have where you are just not sure if you are going to fit in. But honestly, I was welcomed straight away. It felt like I had found my people.”
The café provided a grounding space where Gord could learn new skills, meet people, and slowly start to come out of their shell. It also gave them the chance to complete their food hygiene certificate, which added another layer of confidence.
Getting Involved with the Shop
As Gord grew more comfortable, they started volunteering in the shop. They helped organise the space and supported early plans for launching an online store.
“The shop gave me a chance to take on a bit more responsibility. I started noticing how the space ran and how it could be improved. Being part of those conversations made me feel like my voice mattered.”
They were able to use their organisational skills in a real way and support the team in growing something together.
Growing into a New Role
Over time, Gord began offering tarot readings at Transcend, then co-leading classes, and now facilitates group spaces at FLOW in Salford Quays.
“I honestly do not think I would be doing what I do now if I had not started volunteering. It gave me confidence. It helped me feel seen. It helped me trust that I had something to offer.”
Their story is a great example of how volunteering can create a stepping stone into work that feels aligned and meaningful. But it did not start with a grand plan. It started with a willingness to show up and help.
Becky’s Story: Exploring Yoga and Expanding Community
Finding Her Way to FLOW
Becky is a self-employed tattoo artist. After starting to explore yoga, she wanted to find a way to be around new people and get more involved in something different. That led her to volunteer at FLOW in Salford Quays.
“I was just looking for something different. A way to meet people outside of my usual circles. I had just gotten into yoga and thought, maybe this is a space where I could explore that a bit more.”
From her first few shifts, Becky felt welcomed by the team. The people she met were friendly, open, and had interesting stories. That connection helped her feel at ease.
What She Gets from Volunteering
For Becky, volunteering is not just a way to give back. It is also a way to grow personally.
“I have met so many people with stories and backgrounds I would never normally cross paths with. It has been really eye-opening, in the best way. You realise how many different types of people are drawn to a space like this, and that helps you grow.”
She also appreciated the accessibility of the classes, and how beginners are welcomed without pressure.
“Being part of the volunteer team has helped me feel more confident, more comfortable in myself. I do not have to pretend to be something I am not. I just show up and do my bit, and that is enough.”
Staying Involved
Becky continues to volunteer, balancing it alongside her work. She recommends it to anyone who is curious, especially those who want to feel more connected and confident.
“It is not about being perfect or knowing everything. It is just about being part of something, and being open to where it might take you.”
You Are Part of Something Bigger
Transcend is a not for profit Community Interest Company. Everything we do is centred on community wellbeing, and volunteers make that possible. When you volunteer, you are not just taking on a shift. You are supporting inclusive events, warm community spaces, and affordable access to wellbeing support.
Volunteers receive regular check-ins, team gatherings, and training. We want our team to feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow. You are not just helping us. You are part of us.
How to Get Involved
If you are in Eccles, Salford, or Greater Manchester and looking for a meaningful way to connect with others, build confidence, or just do something different with your time, volunteering at Transcend could be a brilliant fit.
Visit the Work With Us page and let us know you are interested in volunteering. We would love to hear from you and find out what you would enjoy doing.
Volunteering is about showing up and being part of something. Come as you are. We will meet you there.
