Shop Volunteer

Shop Volunteer

Volunteer No home office possible
Cancer Research UK

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Help raise funds for cancer research by volunteering in our friendly shop.
  • Company: Join Cancer Research UK and be part of a passionate community.
  • Benefits: Gain valuable skills, boost your confidence, and make new friends.
  • Other info: Flexible shifts available; support and training provided.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in the fight against cancer while having fun.
  • Qualifications: No experience needed, just enthusiasm and a team spirit.

This shop has shifts available on Monday AM, Wednesday AM, Friday AM, Saturday PM.

About the role

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.
  • Bringing their energy and passion to help us beat cancer together.

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, 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.

Why we need you

At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer. And so far, we’ve made incredible progress – in the last 50 years, we’ve helped to double cancer survival in the UK. To make these advances possible, we rely on our community of brilliant volunteers, who give their time to help fund research that saves lives. By volunteering, you’re helping to bring us closer to a world where everybody lives longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer. We will happily consider making any reasonable adjustments to support volunteer applications from people with a disability or health condition.

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.

Shop Volunteer employer: Cancer Research UK

At Cancer Research UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the contributions of our volunteers. Located in Birchington, Kent, our shop offers a friendly and inclusive environment where you can develop valuable skills, build confidence, and make lasting friendships while supporting a vital cause. With flexible volunteering hours and ongoing training opportunities, you'll not only help us in our mission to beat cancer but also gain personal satisfaction and growth from your experience.
Cancer Research UK

Contact Detail:

Cancer Research UK Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Shop Volunteer

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the shop and its mission! Before your first shift, take a moment to learn about Cancer Research UK and what they stand for. This will help you connect with customers and share the cause passionately.

✨Tip Number 2

Be proactive during your shifts! Don’t wait for tasks to be assigned; jump in and offer to help with window displays or greet customers. Your enthusiasm will shine through and make a lasting impression.

✨Tip Number 3

Network with your fellow volunteers! Building relationships with your team can lead to new opportunities and friendships. Plus, sharing experiences can help you learn and grow in your role.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t hesitate to ask questions! If you're unsure about something, just ask your manager or teammates. They’re there to support you, and showing that you’re eager to learn will definitely work in your favour.

We think you need these skills to ace Shop Volunteer

Customer Service
Teamwork
Flexibility
Enthusiasm
Communication Skills
Sales Skills
Creativity
Fundraising Skills
Attention to Detail
Motivation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for helping others and your passion for making a difference.

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 roles or activities demonstrate your flexibility and team spirit!

Keep It Clear and Concise: While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon to ensure we can easily understand your motivations and what you bring to the table.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s super easy and ensures your application goes straight to the right people. Plus, you’ll get all the latest updates on your application status!

How to prepare for a job interview at Cancer Research UK

✨Know the Cause

Before your interview, take some time to understand Cancer Research UK's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their work and how volunteering in the shop contributes to beating cancer. This will show your genuine interest and passion for the cause.

✨Show Your Enthusiasm

During the interview, let your enthusiasm shine through! Share why you want to volunteer and how you can contribute to the team. Being motivated and positive will resonate well with the interviewers, as they’re looking for individuals who are eager to help.

✨Prepare for Teamwork Questions

Since this role involves working closely with others, be ready to discuss your experiences in team settings. Think of examples where you've collaborated effectively or helped create a supportive environment. This will demonstrate that you're a great team player.

✨Ask Thoughtful Questions

At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the types of tasks you'll be doing or how the team supports each other. This shows that you’re engaged and serious about the role, plus it helps you get a better feel for the environment.

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