York Neighbours supports people over the age of 65 – who we describe as our “Neighbours” – to live independently and happily at home for longer, enjoy a sense of human connection, and still feel part of a community.

 

We do this through what’s best described as “organised neighbourliness” involving lots of other York residents volunteering to help with one-off tasks and errands, regular check-in and chat phone calls, and social outings.

“People like us need people like you.” Colin, 81, Rawcliffe

With thanks to Maisie Clegg, our Summer 2025 intern from the University of York, for producing this video.  Please note any references to numbers or positions held within York Neighbours are accurate up to August 2025.

Help with one-off tasks and errands

Providing peace of mind, preventing risks at home or outside, and avoiding the uncertainty or (for some) unaffordable fees of tradespeople for relatively small jobs.

Be it changing lightbulbs or fixing curtain rails, bits of shopping or gardening, moving furniture or tech troubles, and more – if it’s a one-off ask, and suitable for a volunteer to pop around and help with, we’ll give it a try. See our work in action via the YouTube link here.

York Neighbour's volunteer providing assistance.
“You’re all wonderful people, you know, I really rely on you.” Joan, 97, Holgate
Lady taking a regular phone call.

Regular check-in and chat phone calls

Giving those who can go days without speaking to anybody the time and attention of a friendly conversation – be it about what’s been on the telly, their family or work history, hobbies, or even just the weather – with people who are interested in hearing about them and their life.

These calls are also some people’s only line of communication if their needs are changing, allowing us to help them find more support.  See our work in action via the YouTube link here.

“It’s like suddenly having distant relatives.” Pru, 76, Dunnington

Social outings

We also organise what is often our Neighbours’ only opportunity to get out, meet new people, see new places, and make new memories.  

Such trips range from lunches out, games of accessible bowls, tourist attractions, seasonal celebrations, as well as places of personal meaning and remembrance.  

Our helpers kindly volunteer to pick people up, accompany them, and drop-off them off. See our work in action via the YouTube link here.

Two women talking at bowls social event.
To receive or give help with one or more of the above click here

Support York Neighbours

Man happily standing within his doorway.

One-off or regular donations

York Neighbours relies entirely on the generosity of individuals and community groups kindly donating to us, as well as applying for grants from trusts and foundations.

Any donations will be used carefully and effectively to keep our services running for our Neighbours.

Donate
Charity choir event.

Fundraising events

Whether it’s through your own ideas, or the events we’re running, we love it when people want to help raise funds for us!

From bake sales to raffles, bucket collections to bag-packing, right up to gigs, pub quizzes, hikes, marathons and more – come and get involved!

Fundraising