At a Glance
- Tasks: Help create inspiring book and music collections while supporting a fairer world.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to making a difference in communities.
- Benefits: Flexible volunteering hours, training opportunities, and potential references for future jobs.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with comprehensive health and safety training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining valuable retail experience and meeting like-minded people.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your passion for books or music!
Available from 27/05/2026 to 29/05/2026. 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 books 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.
Here’s why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:
- Be a Second‑hand Hero: In our high street shops, Ecommerce Hubs and Online Shop, people like you help create exciting and inspiring book and music collections – giving pre‑loved books and music a new life and purpose!
- Share Your Interests: If you have a particular interest, you can build on it to gain valuable retail experience to add to your CV, such as merchandising, 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!
Why we want you: 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 our amazing Book and Music Shops you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.
What you will be doing: Undertake shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
- Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
- Researching valuable, rare and antiquated stock.
- Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till.
- 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. Knowledge and interest in books or music.
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.
Book and Music Shop Volunteer (Welwyn Garden City Books & Music) employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community through volunteering. With flexible schedules, comprehensive training, and the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, you can develop valuable skills while contributing to a fairer world. Join us in our Welwyn Garden City Book and Music Shop, where your passion for books and music can help empower communities globally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Book and Music Shop Volunteer (Welwyn Garden City Books & Music)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop and its vibe! Spend some time browsing the books and music, and chat with current volunteers or staff. This will help you understand what they value and how you can fit in.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for books and music during your conversations. Share your favourite titles or artists when chatting with the team. It’s a great way to connect and show you’re genuinely interested in the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see something that needs doing in the shop, like tidying up or helping a customer, jump in. This shows you’re a team player and ready to contribute right from the start.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it gives us a chance to see your enthusiasm for joining the Oxfam family.
We think you need these skills to ace Book and Music Shop Volunteer (Welwyn Garden City Books & Music)
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 books and music, and don’t be afraid to show us your enthusiasm for making a difference.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your interests and skills align with what we're looking for. Whether it's your love for literature or your knack for customer service, connect the dots for us!
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 experience and motivations without getting lost in the details.
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 mission there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of books and music. Familiarise yourself with popular titles, genres, and artists. This will not only show your passion but also help you connect with the team and customers.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Oxfam is all about making a difference, so let your passion shine through! Be ready to share why you want to volunteer and how you can contribute to their mission. A genuine interest in helping others will go a long way.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
Since teamwork is key in this role, think of examples from your past experiences where you've worked well with others. Whether it's in school, previous volunteering, or even group projects, showing that you can collaborate effectively will impress the interviewers.
✨Ask Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training process, the types of tasks you'll be doing, or how the shop supports its volunteers. It shows you're engaged and genuinely interested in the role.
