At a Glance
- Tasks: Help in our shops by greeting customers, creating displays, and raising funds for cancer research.
- Company: Join a passionate team at Cancer Research UK making a real difference.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, boost your confidence, and make new friends while volunteering.
- Other info: Flexible hours and ongoing training provided; minimum age is 16 with a recognised scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a movement to beat cancer and support your community.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just enthusiasm and a team spirit.
234 West End Lane, West Hampstead, London, NW6 1UR
Our shops raise millions of pounds every year to fund life‑saving research, and by giving your time, you’ll be joining a movement of people passionate about beating cancer. You’ll be welcomed into a friendly, supportive team, where you’ll gain valuable skills, build confidence, and make new friends – all while making a real difference for people affected by cancer.
What you’ll be doing
Volunteering in our shops is exciting and rewarding. From styling windows with pre‑loved fashion to talking with customers and making them feel welcome, volunteers are at the heart of our shop teams and every shift makes a difference. Here are some of the tasks you could help with:
- Greeting customers and offering a friendly, helpful service.
- Identifying quality items that could sell for a good price, helping to raise more money for the shop.
- Creating eye‑catching window displays and keeping the shop looking its best.
- Helping at the till by taking payments and asking customers if they’d like to donate through Gift Aid or round up their total to support the shop's fundraising.
- Taking part in team activities to fundraise for campaigns like Stand Up To Cancer.
The kind of person we’re looking for
You don’t need any experience to volunteer, you just need to be motivated, enthusiastic and enjoy being part of a team. We’re on the lookout for individuals who are:
- Flexible and happy to get stuck into a variety of tasks.
- Enthusiastic about helping to raise vital funds through the shop’s activities.
- Team players who enjoy being part of a supportive, inclusive environment.
Please note: The minimum age for volunteering in our shops is 18. If you are aged between 16 and 17 you may still be able to volunteer in our shops, but you must be on a recognised scheme, for example short term work experience organised by your school. You must be living in the UK to volunteer in one of our shops. We ask all applicants to disclose to us, in confidence, any unspent criminal convictions.
Where and when
We have shops and superstores across the UK, ranging from traditional high street stores to larger retail park locations. Each offers a different experience, so there’s something for everyone. Just enter your preferred location when searching to find opportunities near you. Volunteering with us is easy and flexible, so whether you can give a few hours a week or a few days, your manager will help organise shifts that work best for you.
How we’ll look after you
We want you to get the most out of your volunteering experience and our friendly team will be there to support you all the way. Once you've submitted your application, we'll review it to make sure we have everything we need. A shop manager will then be in touch to invite you to a taster session where you can meet the team, learn more about the role and decide if it feels right for you. If you decide you'd like to join the team, we'll provide a full induction and offer ongoing training opportunities to make sure you're fully confident in your role. We can also reimburse reasonable travel and other out‑of‑pocket expenses, as agreed in advance with your manager.
What you’ll gain
As well as making a huge impact on our mission to beat cancer, volunteering with us can also have a range of benefits for you too, from boosting your wellbeing to helping you discover new skills and interests. By joining us as a volunteer, you'll have the chance to:
- Develop skills that are valuable in the workplace.
- Build confidence and make new friends.
- Give back to your local community.
- Have fun volunteering alongside like‑minded people who are supporting the same cause.
Inclusivity
At Cancer Research UK we know that having a diverse volunteer community will help us to beat cancer. We're committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We will happily consider making any reasonable adjustments to support volunteer applications from people with a disability or health condition.
Shop volunteer – West Hampstead in London employer: Cancer Research UK
At Cancer Research UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the contributions of our volunteers in West Hampstead. Our inclusive and supportive work culture fosters personal growth and skill development, allowing you to make a meaningful impact while building confidence and friendships. With flexible volunteering hours and a commitment to your wellbeing, you'll find a rewarding experience that not only supports our mission to beat cancer but also enriches your own life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shop volunteer – West Hampstead in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop and its mission! Before your taster session, do a bit of research on Cancer Research UK and what they stand for. This will show your enthusiasm and help you connect with the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself during the taster session! The team is looking for genuine, enthusiastic individuals who are passionate about making a difference. Let your personality shine through and don’t be afraid to share your ideas.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your flexibility! Since volunteering can involve various tasks, being open to trying new things will make you stand out. Whether it’s styling windows or helping at the till, your willingness to jump in will impress the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your taster session! A quick thank-you message to the shop manager can go a long way. It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds as they consider volunteers for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Shop volunteer – West Hampstead in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are and what makes you passionate about volunteering with us. Don’t be shy – share your enthusiasm for helping others!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to highlight any relevant skills or experiences that align with the role. Even if you don’t have direct experience, think about how your past activities or interests can contribute to our mission of beating cancer.
Show Your Team Spirit:Since we’re all about teamwork, mention any experiences where you’ve worked well with others. Whether it’s in school, sports, or other volunteer roles, showing that you’re a team player will definitely catch our eye!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smooth process. It’s super easy, and you’ll get all the info you need about the role and our team. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cancer Research UK
✨Know the Cause
Before your interview, take some time to understand the mission of the organisation. Familiarise yourself with their work in cancer research and how your role as a shop volunteer contributes to that cause. This will show your genuine interest and passion during the interview.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Be ready to express your motivation for volunteering. Share why you want to help raise funds and support the community. Your enthusiasm can be contagious, and it’s something the interviewers will be looking for in a potential team player.
✨Prepare for Teamwork Questions
Since teamwork is key in this role, think of examples from your past experiences where you worked well in a team. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to a supportive and inclusive environment, as this aligns with what they’re looking for.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, upcoming fundraising activities, or how they support volunteers. This shows that you’re engaged and eager to be part of the team.
