At a Glance
- Tasks: Help turn pre-loved books and music into resources that empower communities.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement for a fairer world through second-hand treasures.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, training opportunities, and some lunch and travel costs covered.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with support for all volunteers.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while gaining valuable retail experience and meeting like-minded people.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your passion for books or music!
Please note: this role is only suitable for applicants aged 18 and over.
Do you want to make a real difference? At Oxfam, we’re not just selling pre‑loved books and unique finds – we’re working together to build a radically better world. With your help, we will turn pre‑loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide.
Here’s why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:
- Be a Second‑hand Hero: In our high street shops, ecommerce hubs and online shop, people help create exciting and inspiring book and music collections – giving pre‑loved books and music a new life and purpose.
- Share Your Interests: If you have a particular interest, you can build on it to gain valuable retail experience to add to your CV, such as merchandising, customer service, and teamwork.
- Find Your Community: Meet like‑minded people who share your passion for a fairer world.
- Flexibility: We know life gets busy. That’s why we offer flexible volunteering options. A few hours a week is all it takes to make a big difference.
Oxfam isn’t just another charity shop: We’re a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it!
What happens next? After you apply, the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you’d like to do in the shop. From there, you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!
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’re open to learning, 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. By volunteering with us in one of our amazing Book and Music Shops you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all while learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.
What you will be doing: Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
- Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
- Researching valuable, rare and antiquated stock.
- Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till.
- Visual merchandising: creating eye‑catching window and in‑store displays.
- Photographing and listing items for the online shop.
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. Knowledge and interest in books or music.
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.
2-4 High Street, Walthamstow, Greater London, E17 7LD, United Kingdom
Book and Music Shop Volunteer (Oxfam Walthamstow- Music Volunteer) employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam Walthamstow is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community while gaining valuable experience. With flexible volunteering options, comprehensive training, and a supportive work culture, you will not only contribute to a fairer world but also develop new skills and build lasting connections with like-minded individuals. Join us in transforming pre-loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide!
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Book and Music Shop Volunteer (Oxfam Walthamstow- Music Volunteer)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop and its vibe! Before your initial chat, pop in and have a look around. Familiarising yourself with the layout and the types of books and music they sell will help you feel more confident and engaged during your conversation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you chat with the manager, let them know what excites you about volunteering at Oxfam. Whether it's your love for books, music, or making a difference, sharing your enthusiasm can really make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Be open to learning new skills! Oxfam offers training, so don’t hesitate to express your willingness to learn. Whether it’s merchandising or customer service, showing that you’re keen to develop can set you apart from other volunteers.
✨Tip Number 4
Connect with fellow volunteers! After your initial chat, take the time to meet the team. Building relationships with like-minded people not only makes your volunteering experience more enjoyable but can also lead to future opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Book and Music Shop Volunteer (Oxfam Walthamstow- Music Volunteer)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are and what makes you tick. Share your passion for books and music, and how you hope to make a difference with us.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to highlight any relevant interests or experiences that relate to the role. Whether it's your love for music or your knack for customer service, we want to see how you can contribute to our mission at Oxfam.
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. This helps us understand your motivations and skills quickly, making it easier for us to see how you fit into our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It's the best way to ensure it reaches us directly. Plus, you'll find all the info you need about the role and our values right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Stuff
Before your chat with the manager, brush up on Oxfam's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their work in the community and how your role as a volunteer can contribute to their goals. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect with the team.
✨Show Your Passion
Be ready to share your love for books and music! Talk about your favourite genres or authors, and why you think second-hand items are valuable. This will help demonstrate that you're not just looking for any volunteering role, but that you truly care about what Oxfam stands for.
✨Be Open and Friendly
Since this role is all about teamwork and customer interaction, make sure to showcase your friendly personality. Smile, maintain eye contact, and be approachable during your initial chat. This will help the manager see that you’d fit right in with the rest of the volunteer team.
✨Ask Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask the manager about the role and the shop. This could be about the types of tasks you'll be doing or how the team collaborates. It shows that you're engaged and eager to learn more about how you can contribute.
