A University of Manchester led public engagement initiative is making a significant contribution to supporting Chinese communities in Greater Manchester and beyond, addressing key social challenges through research-informed civic engagement.

A new initiative developed by academics from the University’s Faculty of Humanities and Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health is responding to pressing issues facing Chinese communities, including population ageing, social and digital inclusion, health and wellbeing, and the development of prosperous and inclusive communities. Central to the project is a commitment to ensuring that academic research and teaching translate into meaningful social benefit. A number of activities have been delivered through three integrated strands in partnership with local, national, and international organisations, combining academic expertise with community-led insights to shape future research priorities.

In November 2024, the team of academics partnered with the Chinese Health Information Centre to co-host its 37th Anniversary Celebration and Charity Gala. The event attracted more than 300 participants from the public, private, and voluntary sectors, raised several thousand pounds in support of Chinese communities in Greater Manchester, and strengthened long-term civic partnerships.

Community engagement continued in May 2025 through collaboration with the Wai Yin Society, which led to an inclusive event attended by over 100 older adults. Activities such as Tai Chi, gardening, and digital technology sessions created a welcoming space for participants to share lived experiences and discuss current challenges and future needs. Between 2024 and 2025, four community workshops reached nearly 200 older adults alongside health and care practitioners, promoting culturally sensitive approaches to wellbeing and helping to reduce digital exclusion. More than 200 physical activity brochures were also distributed through community organisations and local GP practices.

The initiative has further strengthened international collaboration through knowledge exchange. This included hosting Professor Fiona Stanaway from the University of Sydney and convening a in-person China–UK Joint Ageing Research Workshop at the University of Manchester in October 2025. These activities have created strong foundations for future research collaboration and public engagement, reinforcing the University’s global leadership in ageing research and civic impact.

Jointly funded by the Faculty of Humanities Civic Engagement Fund and the Manchester China Institute, this initiative is delivered by the Global Network for Ageing Research on China/Chinese (GNARC), led by Dr Nan Zhang. The project brings together a multidisciplinary team, with substantial contributions from Yang Yang, Dr Jingwen Zhang, Yan Wen, Dr Jiyao Sun, Dr Yan Wang, and Professor Peter Gries.