3 Carers support and development worker volunteer roles

M13 Youth Project has been serving the communities of Ardwick and Hulme for over 30 years, building an outstanding reputation for high-quality youth work, deep community roots and a long-term commitment to children, and young people. Today, the organisation is recognised nationally for its expertise in detached youth work and for the impact it continues to have on the lives of young people.

What impresses me most about M13 is its unwavering commitment to showing up consistently, particularly in communities where opportunities can be limited and challenges are significant. Through its work, young people are supported to build confidence, develop leadership skills, strengthen their sense of belonging and create positive change for themselves and those around them.

As Chair of Trustees, I have the privilege of seeing first-hand the dedication, creativity and professionalism of our staff, volunteers and supporters. Their commitment ensures that M13 remains a trusted and respected organisation while continuing to adapt and respond to the changing needs of young people.

As we look to the future, we are seeking new Trustees who can bring fresh perspectives, skills and experience to help shape the next chapter of M13's development. Your contribution could help ensure the organisation remains strong, sustainable and impactful for years to come.

Trustees play an essential role in providing strategic oversight, supporting good governance and championing the values that have guided M13 throughout its history. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an organisation that is making a meaningful difference every day.

We would be delighted to hear from people who share our passion for young people, thriving communities and social justice.

Dr Matthew Harrison, Chair of Trustees

Who We Are

M13 Youth Project exists to be a consistent, trusted presence in communities experiencing deep-rooted inequality. We walk alongside young people, nurturing hope, belonging and belief so they can flourish and help shape thriving communities for generations to come. We do this through relational detached youth work and purposeful informal education, working alongside young people to create opportunities to learn about themselves, others and the world, to develop their voice and power, and to work together to create lasting change in their communities.

We are a Manchester-based youth work charity working alongside children and young people in Ardwick and Hulme and young dads city-wide. Established in 1995 by Dr Helen Gatenby, we have built a national reputation for delivering high-quality detached youth work, informal education and consistent relationship-based practice that supports young people to flourish.

Our work is rooted in long-term trusted relationships. Each year we work with hundreds of children, young people and young fathers through street-based detached youth work, group work, community activities, leadership opportunities and targeted projects. We create spaces where young people feel valued, heard and supported, enabling them to explore who they are, develop their strengths and work together to make positive change.

Our caring approach is informed by the principles and practices of youth work, informal education and trauma-informed practice, underpinned by our open and inclusive Christian value base that emphasises love and justice. We believe all young people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity and that each young person can love, think, create, reflect, enjoy, achieve and make a positive difference to their world.

Why M13 Matters

Many of the communities where M13 works experience persistent social and economic inequalities. Young people often face barriers including poverty, racism, difficult childhood experiences, limited opportunities, exclusion and a lack of access to trusted adult relationships. Our response is simple but powerful: we show up consistently and walk alongside young people over time. 

The relationship is the work.

Through trusted relationships and informal education, young people develop hope, belonging and belief. They discover their voice, strengthen their confidence and realise their ability to influence their own futures and the communities around them.

Governance and Leadership

M13 is governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees who generously contribute their time, expertise and enthusiasm. The board provide strategic leadership, oversight and accountability for the charity.

The board meets throughout the year working closely with Helen and the staff team. As M13 celebrates more than 30 years of youth work practice, we are undertaking significant reflection and planning for the future.

We are:

• Evaluating our long-term impact
• Researching future need within our communities
• Developing strategic priorities for the next five years
• Strengthening organisational systems and sustainability
• Building on our national reputation for detached youth work excellence
• Expanding opportunities for young people to influence and shape our work

This is an exciting time to join the Board and contribute to the next chapter of M13's story.

Why become a Trustee?

Trusteeship with M13 offers an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of children and young people. As a Trustee you will:

Make a Lasting Difference: Help ensure young people have access to trusted relationships, opportunities and support.

Shape Strategic Direction: Contribute to the future development of a respected charity with a strong track record and clear purpose.

Use Your Skills for Good: Apply your professional knowledge and experience to create positive social impact.

Develop Leadership Experience: Gain valuable experience in governance, strategic planning and organisational development.

Join a Passionate Community: Work alongside committed Trustees, staff, volunteers and young people who believe in the power of relationships and community.

Support Social Justice: Help tackle inequality and create opportunities for young people to flourish.