At a Glance
- Tasks: Help create inspiring collections and provide great customer service in our bookshop.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to building a fairer world.
- Benefits: Gain valuable retail experience, meet new people, and receive training.
- Other info: Flexible hours, lunch and travel costs covered, and potential references for future jobs.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while learning new skills and having fun.
- Qualifications: No 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.
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 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 invite you to an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to discuss what you'd like to do to help out. From there, you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop interests you.
Volunteer role: Retail 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, 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.
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, speak to a manager for assistance.
Retail Volunteer (Bookshop Cleaner 3 hours a day to suit at Oxfam Durham) in North East employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam Durham is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community while gaining valuable retail experience. With a flexible volunteering schedule, 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 as we transform pre-loved items into resources that empower communities globally!
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Volunteer (Bookshop Cleaner 3 hours a day to suit at Oxfam Durham) in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Oxfam and its mission! Before your chat with the manager, do a bit of research on what Oxfam stands for. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect better during your conversation.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself! When you have that initial chat, just relax and be honest about what you want to do. Share your interests and how you think you can contribute – it’s all about finding the right fit for both you and the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! Don’t hesitate to inquire about the tasks you might be doing or the team dynamics. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn, plus it helps you figure out if this is the right volunteering gig for you.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your chat! A quick thank-you message to the manager can go a long way. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for joining the Oxfam family.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Volunteer (Bookshop Cleaner 3 hours a day to suit at Oxfam Durham) in North East
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 making a difference – it’s what we’re all about!
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 this position. We love seeing how you connect the dots!
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 points quickly and makes it easier for us to see how you’d fit into our team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our mission there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Why
Before your chat with the manager, think about why you want to volunteer at Oxfam. Reflect on how their mission resonates with you and be ready to share your passion for making a difference in the community.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Oxfam values teamwork, so be prepared to discuss your experiences working with others. Think of examples where you've collaborated effectively, even if it's just in school or other volunteer roles.
✨Ask Questions
This initial chat is a two-way street! Prepare some questions about the role, the team, and what a typical day looks like. It shows you're genuinely interested and helps you understand if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way. Be honest about your skills and what you hope to learn. Oxfam is looking for friendly, reliable individuals, so let your personality shine through during the conversation!
