At a Glance
- Tasks: Sort and organise donations to keep our retail spaces well-stocked.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement for a fairer world through second-hand treasures.
- Benefits: Gain valuable retail experience, flexible hours, and meet like-minded people.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with training and possible references for future jobs.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while learning new skills and having fun.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for helping others.
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 items 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. As a stock volunteer, you'll be behind-the-scenes, sorting and organising donations to keep our retail spaces well-stocked. Your keen eye for detail and passion for helping others will ensure our customers always have a great choice of items to buy.
Here’s why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:
- Be a Second-hand Superhero: In our high street shops, Ecommerce Hubs and Online Shop, people like you help create exciting and inspiring collections – retail therapy with a purpose!
- Increase Your Skills: Gain valuable retail experience you can add to your CV, such as following instructions, 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!
Volunteer role: Stock Volunteer
Volunteer manager: Shop Manager
Where you will be based: Shop
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 retail spaces you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst 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.
- Chatting to customers who drop off donations and other members of the team.
- Preparing stock to be put out on the shop floor, ready for sale.
- Researching valuable and vintage stock.
- 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.
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.
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.
167 Hallgate, Cottingham, East Riding of Yorkshire, HU16 4BB, United Kingdom
Stock Volunteer (Cottingham, East Riding of Yorkshire) employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community while gaining valuable retail experience. With flexible volunteering options, comprehensive training, and a supportive work culture, you will not only develop new skills but also connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for creating a fairer world. Join us in Cottingham and become a part of a movement that transforms pre-loved items into resources that empower communities globally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Stock Volunteer (Cottingham, East Riding of Yorkshire)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop! Before your initial chat, pop into Oxfam and check out the vibe. Familiarise yourself with the layout and the types of items they sell. This will help you feel more confident and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself during the chat! The manager wants to see your personality shine through. Share your passion for helping others and any relevant experiences, even if they're not directly related to retail. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! Show your enthusiasm by asking about the team, the training process, or what a typical day looks like. This not only helps you understand the role better but also demonstrates your eagerness to get involved.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your chat! A quick thank-you message to the manager can leave a lasting impression. It shows you're proactive and genuinely interested in becoming part of the Oxfam family. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Stock Volunteer (Cottingham, East Riding of Yorkshire)
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. Don’t be afraid to share your passion for helping others and why you want to join Oxfam.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight any relevant skills or experiences you have. Even if you don’t have direct experience, think about how your past roles or volunteer work can relate to being a Stock Volunteer.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate a straightforward application! Stick to the point and avoid fluff. Use clear language and structure your application so it’s easy for us to read and understand your motivations.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you started on this exciting journey with Oxfam. Plus, it ensures you’re following the right process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Why
Before heading into the chat, think about why you want to volunteer with Oxfam. Reflect on your passion for helping others and how you can contribute to their mission. This will help you express genuine enthusiasm during your conversation.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with others, be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated in the past. Whether it's in school, work, or other volunteer experiences, demonstrating your ability to work as part of a team will make a great impression.
✨Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your initial chat! Inquire about the specific tasks you'll be doing, the training provided, or how the team operates. This shows your interest and helps you understand what to expect.
✨Be Yourself
Remember, this is a friendly chat, not a formal interview. Just be yourself and let your personality shine through. Oxfam values authenticity, so showing your true self will help you connect with the team and demonstrate that you’re a good fit.
