At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of volunteers to ensure smooth shop operations and customer service.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to creating a fairer world through retail.
- Benefits: Gain valuable retail experience, flexible hours, and potential references for future jobs.
- Other info: Comprehensive training provided, with a focus on safety and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing new skills and meeting like-minded people.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your passion and reliability!
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 enable 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!
Volunteer role: Shift Lead Volunteer
Volunteer 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 as 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.
2 George Street, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7LH, United Kingdom
Shift Lead Volunteer (Tamworth) employer: Oxfam International
At Oxfam, we are more than just a charity shop; we are a community of passionate individuals dedicated to creating a fairer world. As a Shift Lead Volunteer in Tamworth, you will enjoy flexible volunteering options, gain valuable retail experience, and connect with like-minded people while making a meaningful impact in your local community. With comprehensive training and support, you will have the opportunity to grow your skills and confidence in a welcoming environment that prioritises inclusivity and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shift Lead Volunteer (Tamworth)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Oxfam shop vibe! Pop in and chat with the current volunteers and managers. This will give you a feel for the place and show your genuine interest in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to showcase your passion for making a difference. When you meet the manager, share why you want to volunteer and how you can contribute to the shop's mission. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your customer service skills! Think about how you can create a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers. A friendly smile and a chat can make all the difference in a retail environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to jump into the digital age of volunteering.
We think you need these skills to ace Shift Lead Volunteer (Tamworth)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When 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 highlight any relevant skills or experiences that align with the Shift Lead Volunteer role. Even if you don’t have direct experience, think about how your past roles or activities can relate to supervising a team or providing great customer service.
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 shows us you can communicate effectively – a key skill for this role!
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 amazing team!
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 making a difference and how this role aligns with your values. Being able to articulate your motivation will show the manager that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Oxfam
Take some time to learn about Oxfam's work and its impact on communities. Understanding their goals and initiatives will help you engage in meaningful conversations during your initial chat. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive and committed to the cause!
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves leading and collaborating with other volunteers, be ready to discuss your teamwork skills. Think of examples from past experiences where you've worked well in a team or helped others. This will demonstrate your ability to support and motivate fellow volunteers.
✨Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your chat! Inquire about the shop's operations, the types of tasks you'll be involved in, or how you can best support the team. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you understand what to expect in the role.
