At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of volunteers and ensure the smooth running of the Oxfam shop.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to creating a fairer world.
- Benefits: Gain valuable retail experience, flexible hours, and meet like-minded people.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with training and potential references for future jobs.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while developing your skills and confidence.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your passion and reliability.
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.
By undertaking this role you will be enabling the shop to open for trading and close up, supervise and lead other volunteers in undertaking tasks and duties that enable the smooth running of the shop, and support the management team in task management.
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: If you have a particular interest, you can build on it to gain valuable retail experience to add to your CV, such as supervising a team, 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!
More about this role:
- Volunteer role: Shift Lead 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 by helping their local Oxfam shop to stay open for as long possible. We need people to open and close the shop, and ensure volunteers know what tasks to undertake so the shop can run smoothly.
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:
- Opening or closing the shop.
- Ensuring that the shop is ready to trade or cashing up at the end of trade.
- Allocating tasks to members of the volunteer team.
- Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
- Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till.
- Researching valuable and vintage stock.
- 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. Confident communicator.
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: Additional information: 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.
Shift Lead Volunteer (to lead the shift at Oxfam withington) in Manchester employer: Oxfam International
At Oxfam Withington, we offer a unique volunteering experience where you can make a tangible impact in your community while developing valuable skills in retail and teamwork. Our flexible volunteering options allow you to balance your commitments while being part of a passionate movement dedicated to creating a fairer world. Join us to meet like-minded individuals, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to a cause that empowers communities globally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shift Lead Volunteer (to lead the shift at Oxfam withington) in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Oxfam's mission and values before your chat. This way, you can show how your passion aligns with their goals. It’s all about making a real difference together!
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to share your ideas on how you can contribute to the shop. Whether it’s visual merchandising or customer service, showing initiative can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during your initial chat! This shows your interest and helps you understand what the role entails. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. We’re excited to see how you can help us make a difference at Oxfam Withington!
We think you need these skills to ace Shift Lead Volunteer (to lead the shift at Oxfam withington) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're 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 making a difference and why you want to join our Oxfam team.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight any relevant skills or experiences you have. Whether it’s teamwork, customer service, or just a love for second-hand treasures, show us how you fit the bill!
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate a straightforward application. Stick to the point and avoid fluff. A clear and concise application helps us understand your motivations and qualifications quickly!
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, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Oxfam
Before your chat, take some time to research Oxfam and its mission. Understand what they stand for and how your role as a Shift Lead Volunteer fits into their bigger picture. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to making a difference.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves leading other volunteers, be ready to discuss your teamwork skills. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others or taken the lead in a group setting. Highlighting your ability to work well with a diverse team will make you stand out.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the manager during your initial chat. This could be about the shop's operations, the volunteer team dynamics, or how Oxfam measures success. It shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the role.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way! Be open about your motivations for volunteering and what you hope to gain from the experience. Oxfam values passion and a willingness to help, so let your personality shine through during the conversation.
