At a Glance
- Tasks: Sort, price, and research unique donations to empower communities.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement for a fairer world through second-hand treasures.
- Benefits: Gain retail experience, flexible hours, and potential references for future jobs.
- Why this job: Be a Second-hand Superhero and make a real difference in your community.
- Qualifications: Passion for helping others and a keen eye for valuable items.
- Other info: Meet like-minded people and enjoy comprehensive training in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
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 a specialist stock volunteer, you’ll be behind‑the‑scenes. Your keen eye for detail, knowledge and passion for particular donations will ensure we can maximise the potential income.
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 following instructions, 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: Stock Specialist 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. You have a specialist knowledge and interest that means donations can be accurately valued, you can assess the condition of items accurately, ensuring only quality goods are put on sale. No prior retail or online selling 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!
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 who drop off donations and other members of the team.
- Preparing stock to be put out on the shop floor, ready for sale.
- Researching valuable, rare, antiquated and vintage stock.
- 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 volunteering in the retail space.
- A specialist knowledge and understanding of your area of interest.
- 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.
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.
258/258a Telegraph Road, Heswall, Merseyside, CH60 7SG, United Kingdom
Stock Specialist Volunteer (Heswall, Antique Books) employer: Oxfam International
Contact Detail:
Oxfam International Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Stock Specialist Volunteer (Heswall, Antique Books)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop and its vibe before you apply! Swing by Oxfam, chat with the team, and soak in the atmosphere. This will help you understand what they’re all about and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
When you get that initial chat, be yourself! Share your passion for second-hand treasures and how you can contribute. It’s not an interview, so relax and let your enthusiasm shine through.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your specialist knowledge! Whether it’s vintage books or rare antiques, let them know what you love. This could really set you apart and make you a valuable asset to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your chat! A quick thank-you message can go a long way. It shows you’re keen and keeps you fresh in their minds as they consider volunteers.
We think you need these skills to ace Stock Specialist Volunteer (Heswall, Antique Books)
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 second-hand treasures and how you can contribute to our mission.
Show Your Interest: Make sure to highlight any specific knowledge or interests you have related to the role. Whether it's vintage books or unique finds, showing us your enthusiasm will help you stand out in the crowd!
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 skills and motivations quickly. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It's the easiest way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling. Plus, it shows you're keen to join our Oxfam family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Stuff
Before your chat with the manager, brush up on your knowledge of antique books and unique finds. Being able to discuss your passion for these items will show that you’re genuinely interested in the role and can help maximise the potential income for Oxfam.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Oxfam values teamwork, so be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in the past. Whether it’s a school project or a community event, demonstrating your ability to work well with a team will make you stand out.
✨Be Open to Learning
Since no prior retail experience is needed, express your eagerness to learn during the initial chat. Highlight any skills you’re keen to develop, like customer service or stock management, to show that you’re ready to grow with the role.
✨Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the volunteering role and the shop environment. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you understand what’s expected. Plus, it gives you a chance to see if the role aligns with your interests and goals.