York Neighbours is a volunteer-led charity based in the City of York. We are dedicated to supporting people aged 65 and over to live independently and feel connected to their community. We help with practical tasks at home, social phone calls and trips out in the city.

Getting older can be a worrying thing. Not knowing where friends and family might be, when you might need them, or knowing if you can cope on your own. York Neighbours are a thriving 10-year-old community, connecting those in need to those who can help.

A small job can mean so much. Replacing a lightbulb for someone who can no longer do it themselves might help with sight loss, prevent a fall and therefore a stay in Hospital. A phone call from a friendly volunteer reminds us simply that someone cares.

I have worked as a Co-Ordinator with York Neighbours since May 2025. Everyday, I experience and speak to people who have no local neighbours, friends or family to call upon. So often it's the little things that cause so much worry, and are the things that are the hardest to ask for help with. Alongside my 3 colleagues, we work hard to establish a warm and welcoming community of locals, to eradicate the shame of asking for help, keep over 65s happy and comfortable in their homes and provide that fundamental human connection that we all need.

In 2019, we had less than 100 Neighbours - in February 2026 we surpassed 600.

As we steadily grow, we want to reach those people who may be very isolated with little support from other services. We want to onboard passionate and caring volunteers from all walks of life - and we want to build a network of compassion and neighbourliness.