At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive vehicles, collect and deliver donations, and provide excellent customer service.
- Company: Bedford Bookshop, a community-focused organisation.
- Benefits: Flexible schedules, training opportunities, and some travel costs covered.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with support for all volunteers.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while gaining valuable experience and meeting new people.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, reliable, and hold a valid UK Drivers Licence.
Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged 18 and over.
Why we want you
We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in! You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep active.
Where you will be based
Shop
What you will be doing
- Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
- Driving your own, or hired, vehicles.
- Scheduling and collecting donations from individuals, businesses and donation banks.
- Delivering donations to shops, and sold items to customers.
- Speaking with donors and colleagues and providing great customer service.
- Loading and unloading bags and boxes from the vehicle.
This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers.
The skills you need
- We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering.
- Full training and support is given for this role - no prior experience is required.
- Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others.
- A valid full UK Drivers Licence.
- Willing to have an annual DVLA Licence check.
- Relevant insurance for driving your own, or hire vehicles.
What's in it for you
- Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered).
- Access to training and development.
- Grow your confidence and meet new people.
- Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle.
- Free confidential support by the Retail Trust.
- Possible references for future employers.
Disclaimer
We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs, please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments. We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.
Volunteer Driver (Bedford Bookshop - Times to be arranged) employer: Oxfam International
Join our Bedford Bookshop team as a Volunteer Driver and become an integral part of your community! We offer a supportive and inclusive work culture where you can grow your confidence, meet new people, and gain valuable experience while making a difference. With flexible volunteering schedules, training opportunities, and some travel costs covered, this role is perfect for those looking to contribute positively while enjoying a rewarding experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Driver (Bedford Bookshop - Times to be arranged)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Bedford Bookshop and its mission! Before you apply, take a moment to understand what they do and how your role as a Volunteer Driver fits in. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to chat! When you get the chance to meet the team or the manager, don’t hold back. Share your passion for helping others and your excitement about volunteering. A friendly conversation can make a lasting impression!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your reliability! Since they’re looking for dependable volunteers, be sure to highlight any experiences where you’ve been punctual and trustworthy. Even if it’s just being on time for a friend, it counts!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application in and shows you’re tech-savvy. Plus, you’ll have access to all the latest updates and opportunities at the Bedford Bookshop.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Driver (Bedford Bookshop - Times to be arranged)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for helping others and why you’re interested in this role.
Highlight Your Availability:Since the times for volunteering are flexible, make sure to mention when you’re available. This helps us understand how you can fit into our schedule and makes it easier for us to plan!
Show Your Team Spirit:We love team players! In your application, mention any experiences where you’ve worked with others, even if it’s just in casual settings. It shows us you’re ready to collaborate and contribute to our community.
Apply Through Our Website:To make things easier for both of us, please apply directly through our website. It streamlines the process and ensures we receive all the necessary information to consider your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand what being a Volunteer Driver entails. Familiarise yourself with the tasks mentioned in the job description, like scheduling donations and providing customer service. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
Since this role is all about making a difference in the community, be prepared to share why you want to volunteer. Think of specific examples where you've helped others or contributed to your community. This will demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm for the position.
✨Highlight Your Reliability
Reliability is key for this role, so be ready to discuss how you manage your time and commitments. You might want to mention any previous experiences where you had to be punctual or dependable, even if they’re not directly related to driving or volunteering.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training process, the team you'll be working with, or how the shop supports its volunteers. This shows that you’re engaged and eager to learn more about the role and the organisation.
