At a Glance
- Tasks: Help run a charity shop by sorting donations, assisting customers, and creating displays.
- Company: Sense supports individuals with complex disabilities, ensuring they are not isolated or left out.
- Benefits: Gain retail experience, receive training, and enjoy discounts at Sense shops and high street brands.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team and contribute to life-changing work for those who are deafblind.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable skills and meeting new people.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a passion for helping others and a friendly attitude.
Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.
Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.
About the role:
As a Shop Volunteer you’ll be joining a friendly, welcoming team of volunteers and staff who support each other and have a lot of fun along the way. We value every volunteer and the unique perspective, skills and energy you bring.
Whether you’re sorting donations, creating beautiful displays, or chatting to customers, every task you take on helps to build a more inclusive world.
We value volunteer development, and as part of this role your can develop your skills further by training to become a till user alongside your regular shop volunteer responsibilities, or progressing into a Key volunteer, a role which includes opening, running, and closing the shop in the absence of the manager.
No matter your reason for volunteering – whether it’s to meet new people, build new skills or support Sense’s cause – there’s a place for you in one of our shops.
Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.
Key responsibilities: Shop volunteer
You’ll spend time doing a range of activities, including:
- Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service, helping create a wonderful shopping experience.
- Receiving donated items from the public, thanking them for their support.
- Sorting, steaming and preparing donations for sale.
- Helping to display stock in eye-catching and exciting ways.
- Keeping the shop floor clean, safe and tidy.
- Talking to customers about Sense and the work we do.
Key responsibilities: Till volunteer
Being a till volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop volunteer, however, when you’re ready, we’ll provide you with additional training to:
- Serve customers on the till in a warm and friendly way.
- Put sales through the till, packing them and thanking the customer for shopping with us.
- Talk to customers about Gift Aid and other fundraising initiatives.
If you are interested in becoming a till volunteer straight away, please select ‘Till volunteer’, as well as ‘Shop volunteer’, when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.
Key responsibilities: Key volunteer
Being a Key volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop and till volunteer. However, if you’re interested in taking on additional responsibilities, you can train to become a Key Volunteer, helping the shop manager by:
- Helping supervise the shop and other volunteers.
- Supporting the shop manager to make sure customers have a great experience.
- Opening and closing the shop when needed.
- Cashing up at the end of the day.
If you are interested in becoming a Key volunteer straight away, please select ‘Key volunteer’ when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.
Skills and qualities:
This role would suit you if you’re:
- Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
- Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
- A team player who enjoys working with others.
- Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
- Respectful of others.
What we offer you:
As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:
- Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
- A chance to meet new people.
- A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
- The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
- A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
- Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it.
Our values:
Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work every day. Our values are:
- We include
- We collaborate
- We find a way
- We challenge
- We celebrate
Charity Shop Volunteer - Scarborough Shop employer: Cambridgesca
Sense is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community. As a Charity Shop Volunteer in Scarborough, you will receive comprehensive support and training, allowing you to develop valuable skills while working alongside a passionate team dedicated to supporting individuals with complex disabilities. With opportunities to engage with diverse individuals and contribute to life-changing initiatives, volunteering with Sense not only enriches your experience but also helps foster a sense of belonging and purpose within the local community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Charity Shop Volunteer - Scarborough Shop
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Sense's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to supporting individuals with complex disabilities will help you convey your passion for the cause during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the local community where the Scarborough shop is located. Attend local events or volunteer fairs to network and show your enthusiasm for contributing to the community, which can make a positive impression on the Shop Manager.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous customer service experiences. Think of specific examples where you've gone above and beyond to assist customers, as this role heavily focuses on providing a fantastic shopping experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your willingness to learn and adapt by being open about your desire to develop new skills. Mentioning your interest in retail and teamwork can demonstrate that you're a motivated and flexible candidate for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Charity Shop Volunteer - Scarborough Shop
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read through the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Charity Shop Volunteer position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous volunteer work or customer service experience. Mention specific tasks that relate to the role, such as working in retail, assisting customers, or handling donations.
Show Your Passion:Express your enthusiasm for supporting people with complex disabilities and your commitment to the mission of Sense. Use examples from your life or previous roles that demonstrate your dedication to making a difference.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting your application, make sure to proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-written application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridgesca
✨Show Your Passion for the Cause
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the mission of Sense. Talk about why supporting people with complex disabilities is important to you and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Demonstrate Customer Service Skills
Since the role involves interacting with customers, be prepared to share examples of your previous customer service experiences. Highlight how you’ve gone above and beyond to ensure a positive experience for customers.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Teamwork
This position requires working closely with other volunteers and staff. Share instances where you successfully collaborated in a team setting, showcasing your ability to be a reliable and flexible team player.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Show your interest by preparing thoughtful questions about the volunteer role and the shop's operations. This demonstrates your commitment and eagerness to learn more about how you can make a difference.
