From lonely to loved – How pensioners are finding their second family in New Moston

In the New Moston community, NEPHRA Good Neighbours has spent over 16 years providing a crucial support system for older residents, helping them break free from isolation and build lasting connections.

For many, NEPHRA is a lifeline that makes the difference between feeling alone and being part of a caring, active community. From its welcoming base on Parkfield Road North to the community allotment, NEPHRA is central to the lives of hundreds of people.

This impact is made possible by  a passionate team of volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that no one is left without support, companionship, or purpose.

But the magic of NEPHRA doesn’t happen by chance. It’s fuelled by the passion of people like Clair Walsh, NEPHRA’s dedicated manager, and an army of volunteers who ensure no one in the community is left behind.

NEPHRA Good Neighbours

NEPHRA’s impact is best understood through the people whose lives it has touched.

When Susan’s husband passed away, her world shrank overnight. “I was completely alone,” she recalled. “Days turned into weeks, and I realised I hadn’t spoken to anyone. I didn’t know what to do.”

A leaflet about NEPHRA’s activities was her first step toward a new life. “I was terrified walking into the coffee morning,” Susan admitted. “But the welcome I received was unbelievable. People talked to me as though they’d known me for years.”

Now, Susan is a regular at the lunch clubs, fitness classes, and gardening sessions. “NEPHRA didn’t just give me friends; it gave me my life back,” she says. “I look forward to every single day now.”

For John, retirement brought an unexpected sense of loss. “I didn’t know who I was without work,” he said. “I felt like I had no purpose anymore.”

A neighbour suggested he volunteer at NEPHRA’s allotment. “At first, I just thought, ‘Why not?’” John laughed. “But it became so much more. Working alongside others, growing food for the Meals on Wheels service, and seeing the difference we make—it’s changed everything for me.”

John is now a key figure at NEPHRA’s allotment, mentoring newcomers and leading workshops. “It’s not just about the plants,” he explains. “It’s about the friendships we grow along the way.”

A day in the life at NEPHRA Good Neighbours

Walk into NEPHRA’s headquarters on any given day, and you’ll find a hive of activity. There’s laughter echoing from the papercraft class, concentration in the MHan Cave retro gaming group, and warmth in the sign language café.

“Our activities are designed to bring people together,” says Clair Walsh. “It’s not just about staying busy; it’s about connection, fun, and giving people something to look forward to.”

One of NEPHRA’s most cherished services is its Meals on Wheels program, which delivers freshly prepared meals to residents. But it’s much more than food. “For some of our members, the volunteer delivering their meal might be the only person they see all day,” Clair explained. “It’s a vital lifeline.”

The NEPHRA community allotment is a special place. Nestled on Northfield Road, it’s a sanctuary where people of all ages come together to grow vegetables, share stories, and learn new skills.

Clair highlights its unique role: “The allotment is about sustainability, yes, but also about inclusion and wellbeing. We’ve had people tell us it’s the first time they’ve felt part of something in years.”

Fresh produce from the allotment is used in NEPHRA’s meals, embodying a “grown by us, for us” ethos. Workshops there teach gardening skills, promote healthy eating, and even help tackle food poverty.

For many, the allotment is a place of healing. One regular participant says, “When I’m here, I feel at peace. It’s not just a garden—it’s a haven.”

Clair Walsh

Clair’s journey with NEPHRA began over a decade ago. “I moved to the area and couldn’t find a Mums and Tots group,” she recalled. “So, I started one!”

Her passion for community work grew from there, eventually leading her to her current role as manager. “What drives me is seeing the change we make,” Clair said. “Every single day, I see people smiling, making friends, and finding hope. That’s what it’s all about.”

NEPHRA is powered by volunteers—people who give their time, energy, and hearts to keep the charity running. From delivering meals to leading classes and maintaining the allotment, their contributions are invaluable.

NEPHRA is always looking for more volunteers. “If you’ve ever thought about giving back, there’s no better place,” Clair says. “You don’t need any special skills—just a big heart and a little time.”

Fighting Loneliness, one smile at a time

Loneliness is one of the biggest challenges facing older adults in the UK, and NEPHRA is on the front lines of tackling it.

“We hear it all the time: ‘I felt invisible until I came here,’” Clair shared. “That’s heartbreaking, but it’s also why NEPHRA exists—to make sure no one feels invisible ever again.”

NEPHRA’s impact goes beyond individual lives. It strengthens the entire community, creating a network of support that lifts everyone.

How you can help NEPHRA good neighbours

NEPHRA relies on donations, fundraising, and community support to keep its doors open. There are many ways to get involved, from volunteering and donating to joining their 200 Club lottery.

“Every bit helps,” Clair says. “Whether it’s a few pounds, an hour of your time, or simply spreading the word about what we do, it makes a difference.”

As Clair passionately puts it, “NEPHRA isn’t just a service—it’s a family. And our family is always growing.

If you’re looking for inspiration or a way to make a real impact, look no further than NEPHRA. “We’re here for everyone,” Clair says. “And we’ll keep going as long as the community needs us.”

Visit NEPHRA at 27 Parkfield Road North, New Moston, or their allotment on Northfield Road to see their incredible work firsthand. Together, we can keep the spirit of NEPHRA alive and thriving.

You can check out NEPHRA’s Facebook page by clicking here