At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of volunteers and ensure smooth shop operations.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement for a fairer world through retail.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, flexible hours, and community connections.
- Other info: Full training provided, with opportunities for personal growth and support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while gaining retail experience and meeting like-minded people.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, reliable, and eager to learn; no experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 12 € per hour.
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!
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.
14 High Street, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX28 6HB, United Kingdom
Shift Lead Volunteer (Witney Bookshop, Sundays 10-2) 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 our Witney Bookshop, you will not only gain valuable retail experience and skills but also enjoy a flexible volunteering schedule that fits your lifestyle. Join us to meet like-minded people, make a real difference in your community, and be part of a movement that empowers others through the sale of pre-loved treasures.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shift Lead Volunteer (Witney Bookshop, Sundays 10-2)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop and its vibe! Before your initial chat, pop in and have a look around. Familiarising yourself with the layout and products will help you feel more confident when discussing how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for Oxfam's mission! When you chat with the manager, share why you want to volunteer and how you believe in making a difference. This enthusiasm can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your teamwork skills! Think of examples where you've worked well with others, whether in school, previous volunteering, or even group projects. Oxfam values collaboration, so let that shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions during your chat! This shows you're genuinely interested and eager to learn. Inquire about the tasks you'll be doing, the team dynamics, or any training opportunities available.
We think you need these skills to ace Shift Lead Volunteer (Witney Bookshop, Sundays 10-2)
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. Share your passion for making a difference and how you can contribute to our mission at Oxfam.
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: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 why you'd be a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It's the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you'll find all the info you need about the role and our amazing team there.
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 how the Witney Bookshop contributes to the larger goal of creating a fairer world. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect with the team.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves supervising and leading other volunteers, be ready to discuss your teamwork skills. Think of examples where you've worked well in a group or helped others succeed. Highlighting your collaborative nature will resonate well with the management.
✨Be Ready to Learn
Oxfam values individuals who are open to learning. Be prepared to express your willingness to gain new skills, whether it's customer service or visual merchandising. Share any past experiences where you embraced learning opportunities.
✨Bring Your Passion
Let your passion for making a difference shine through. Talk about why you want to volunteer and how you believe in Oxfam's mission. This enthusiasm can set you apart and show that you're not just looking for any role, but one that truly matters to you.
