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: Comprehensive training provided and lunch/travel costs covered.
- 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) employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam Withington is an exceptional employer that empowers individuals 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 your skills but also connect with like-minded people who share your passion for creating a fairer world. Join us in transforming pre-loved treasures into resources that support communities worldwide!
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shift Lead Volunteer (to lead the shift at Oxfam withington)
✨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 help you connect better during your conversation and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself! When you meet the manager, just relax and be authentic. They want to see the real you and how you can fit into the team. Share your passion for helping others and any relevant experiences, even if they’re not directly related to retail.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! Let them know why you want to volunteer at Oxfam specifically. Whether it’s the community aspect or the chance to learn new skills, expressing your excitement can make a big difference in how they perceive you.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your chat! A quick thank-you message to the manager can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for their time and reinforces your interest in the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their mind as they consider volunteers.
We think you need these skills to ace Shift Lead Volunteer (to lead the shift at Oxfam withington)
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 Shift Lead Volunteer role. Whether it’s teamwork, customer service, or leadership, show us how you can contribute to our mission at Oxfam.
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and get to the point – this helps us understand your motivations and qualifications quickly!
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 people. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Oxfam Inside Out
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 vision. 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, or how Oxfam measures success. It shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the role and the organisation.
✨Be Yourself and Stay Positive
Oxfam is looking for friendly and reliable individuals, so let your personality shine through! Share your passion for helping others and your enthusiasm for the role. A positive attitude can go a long way in making a great impression.
