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New year’s resolutions that give back

08 Jan 2026

Three volunteer days: three opportunities for impact

Colleagues volunteering, cleaning up riverside, with Challenge Accepted

This time of year, many of us set resolutions—join the gym, eat healthier, spend more time outside. But what if your most rewarding resolution in 2026 is simply to volunteer three days of your time? 

As part of our strategy to 2035, we have committed to becoming a great philanthropic university, connecting people to the causes that matter most. Our new fundraising and volunteering campaign, Challenge Accepted, encourages colleagues to get out into the local community and make a difference - every action helps build momentum. 

We are proud to offer all colleagues three paid days of volunteering leave, per annual leave year (pro-rata for part-time colleagues), and we’d love more colleagues than ever to take advantage of our volunteering policy in 2026. 

Already made your resolution? Here’s how volunteering might help you achieve it… 

  • Looking to spend more time outside? Why not volunteer with City of Trees or Sow the City, who host regular, one-day volunteering opportunities across Greater Manchester to make the city greener. 
  • Want to get more involved with Manchester’s cultural scene? Manchester Literature Festival is an annual festival in October, with one-off volunteering opportunities to support the smooth running of events including author talks and public engagement. 
  • Is helping your community a priority? Colleagues have previously volunteered at food banks like Mustard Tree, where no experience is needed to prepare and cook food for those in need. You can also help with sorting supplies and serving if being in the kitchen isn’t your thing!
  • Motivated to support the next generation? We have opportunities for you to be a STEM ambassador and inspire young people to take a STEM pathway in their future. Alternatively, our Access Project allows you to online tutor GCSE level students in any subject of your choice, raising their aspirations and confidence. 

Find out more