At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Oxfam's retail operations with paperwork, data entry, and communications.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to creating a fairer world.
- Benefits: Flexible volunteering hours, lunch and travel costs covered, and access to training.
- Other info: Meet like-minded individuals and grow your confidence in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm 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. As an office volunteer, you'll be behind the scenes, supporting paperwork, data entry, and communications to keep our retail operations running smoothly. Your efficiency and enthusiasm will make a real difference in our community!
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 processing gift aid information, processing invoices, 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!
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 the shop offices, supporting Retail Operations, you will be helping to support the Manager in that shop to undertake the important admin tasks that keep our shops running smoothly. This could help us to better manage volunteers and understand how much unrestricted funds have been raised for Oxfam – all whilst challenging yourself, learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.
What you will be doing:
- Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
- Logging in and filing of shop income returns.
- Checking and entering banking and posting to accounts.
- Allocating restricted donations to correct appeals.
- Processing gift aid information.
- Checking the accuracy of invoices.
- Problem solving and dealing with queries.
- Opening, sorting and distributing mail.
- Organising volunteer rotas.
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 or skills are required.
- Happy to be part of a team.
- Good basic numeracy (essential).
- Good attention to detail (essential).
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly in Excel.
- Good verbal communication skills.
- Good organisational skills.
What's in it for you:
- Some lunch and travel costs (speak to the Manager to understand what is eligible).
- Opportunity to utilise and develop your finance skills.
- Access to training and development.
- Grow your confidence and meet new people.
- Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle.
- Possible references for future employers.
- Free confidential support by the Retail Trust.
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.
Retail Office Volunteer (SW18 4SR) employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam is an exceptional employer that empowers individuals to make a meaningful impact in their community while gaining valuable skills in a supportive and flexible environment. As a Retail Office Volunteer, you'll join a passionate team dedicated to creating a fairer world, with opportunities for personal growth, training, and the chance to connect with like-minded individuals. With a commitment to inclusivity and a focus on volunteer well-being, Oxfam offers a unique experience that goes beyond traditional volunteering.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Office Volunteer (SW18 4SR)
✨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 initial meeting.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself! The initial chat isn’t a formal interview, so relax and let your personality shine through. Share your passion for making a difference and how you can contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! This is your chance to find out more about the role and the team. Inquire about the tasks you'll be doing, the training provided, and how you can make the most impact as a volunteer.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your chat! A quick thank-you message to the manager can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their mind as they consider volunteers for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Office Volunteer (SW18 4SR)
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.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to highlight any relevant skills or experiences that relate to the role. Even if you don’t have direct experience, think about how your past roles or volunteer work can connect to what we do at Oxfam.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate a straightforward application. Use clear language and get to the point. This helps us understand your motivations and how you can contribute to our mission without wading through too much fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of joining our team, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right people quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Role
Before your chat with the manager, take some time to understand what being a Retail Office Volunteer involves. Familiarise yourself with tasks like data entry, processing gift aid information, and managing volunteer rotas. This will show your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute.
✨Show Your Passion
Oxfam is all about making a difference, so be sure to express your passion for helping others and your interest in community work. Share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you to volunteer, as this will resonate well with the team.
✨Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your initial chat! Inquire about the team dynamics, the training provided, or how your role fits into the bigger picture. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the organisation.
✨Be Yourself
Remember, this isn’t a formal interview but a chance to connect. Be genuine and let your personality shine through. Oxfam values friendly and reliable individuals, so just be yourself and let them see why you'd be a great fit for their team!
