At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a friendly team to help run the shop and support your community.
- Company: Oxfam, a movement dedicated to tackling poverty and inequality.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, meet new friends, and flexible volunteering hours.
- Other info: Full training provided, with potential references for future jobs.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while building confidence and experience.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and reliability.
Help your local community while building skills and confidence. Want to make a difference, meet new people and gain valuable experience? As an Under 18 Retail Volunteer, you'll be part of a friendly team helping the shop run smoothly. You could be welcoming customers, sorting donations, creating displays, replenishing stock, or helping keep the shop looking its best.
Every shift you volunteer helps raise vital funds for Oxfam's work tackling poverty and inequality around the world, from supporting communities affected by crisis to helping people build sustainable futures. It's a fun, rewarding role where you'll learn new skills, build confidence and make a real impact.
Here's why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:
- Make a Difference: Every item sold helps fund Oxfam's work around the world. Your time and energy can help create positive change.
- Build Skills for the Future: Develop skills in communication, teamwork, customer service, organisation and problem-solving that can support future education, training and employment opportunities.
- Find Your Community: Meet new people, make friends and become part of a welcoming and supportive team.
- Flexibility: Fit volunteering around your studies, hobbies and other commitments. Even a few hours a week can make a big difference.
A Role That Works for You: This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being part of a team, meeting people and getting stuck into a variety of tasks. No two days are exactly the same, and you'll have the opportunity to learn new skills while contributing to a great cause. Whether you're looking to gain experience, build confidence or simply give something back, we'd love to hear from you.
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 learn more about the role and discuss what you'd like to do. If you're under 18, you do not need to provide ID as part of your application.
More about this role:
- Volunteer role: Under 18 Retail Volunteer
- Volunteer manager: Shop Manager
- Where you will be based: Shop
Why we want you: Open to applicants aged under 18 years. We’re seeking friendly, reliable people 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 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, giving great customer service.
- Visual merchandising: creating eye-catching window and in-store displays.
- Photographing 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.
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 education and other commitments.
- 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. Volunteers under the age of 18 are not required to provide ID. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance. Parental/Guardian Consent will be required as part of the application process. Some Local Authorities may also require a Child Work Permit for volunteering activity, and this may cause a delay to processing your application. Please discuss this with the Manager as they can provide further guidance.
Under 18 Retail Volunteer (Lancaster) employer: Oxfam
Oxfam is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment in Marlow where Deputy Shop Managers can thrive. With a strong commitment to diversity and community engagement, employees benefit from opportunities for personal growth and the chance to make a meaningful impact while working alongside passionate volunteers. The culture fosters collaboration and creativity, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to the shop's success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Under 18 Retail Volunteer (Lancaster)
✨Get Involved in Local Events
Check out local community events and markets where retail opportunities often pop up. Volunteering at these events not only gives you experience but also helps you make valuable connections with local retailers who might be on the lookout for enthusiastic volunteers like us.
✨Reach Out to Local Businesses
Don’t be shy! Walk into shops and ask if they need help. Many small retail stores appreciate the extra hands and are often more flexible with unofficial volunteering roles. Plus, it shows your initiative and interest directly to the business owners.
✨Join Retail Volunteer Networks
Look for local volunteer networks or organisations that specialise in retail placements. These platforms often have a solid list of volunteer opportunities tailored to the retail sector and can connect us with like-minded individuals who can share their experiences.
✨Showcase Your Passion Online
Use social media to showcase your passion for retail. Share posts about your favourite local shops or your thoughts on retail trends. It’s a great way to increase your visibility in the community and may catch the eye of potential retail opportunities—especially if you’re looking to volunteer!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Customer Service Skills:In retail, it's all about great customer interactions. Share any previous experience you have in customer service roles, even if it's informal, like helping out in a family shop or during school events. Highlighting a friendly attitude and a willingness to help goes a long way!
Don’t Forget to Mention Team Spirit:Retail thrives on teamwork! Make sure you mention any group activities or volunteer work where you’ve collaborated with others. This shows that you can communicate well and contribute to a positive environment, which is key for any retail role.
Craft a Warm Cover Letter:Since this is a volunteer role, your cover letter should reflect your passion for helping others and your eagerness to learn. Talk about why you want to volunteer with Oxfam and how contributing aligns with your values and career goals. Make it personal!
Highlight Availability:Being flexible with your schedule can really set you apart for a volunteer position. Mention your availability clearly in your application so that Oxfam knows when you can jump in and help out. They’ll appreciate your willingness to work around their needs!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam
✨Dress the Part
Even though it's a volunteer role, you want to show that you respect the retail environment at Oxfam. Go for a smart-casual look that matches the store vibe—this shows you're ready to represent their brand effectively, and it creates a positive first impression!
✨Know the Products
Retail is all about understanding the products and services on offer. Brush up on Oxfam’s key items or any seasonal promotions they might have going on. This knowledge not only helps you engage with customers but also shows your commitment to getting involved.
✨Customer Interaction Scenarios
Expect scenarios where you'll demonstrate your customer service skills. Prepare to role-play or answer questions about handling difficult customers or upselling products. Practising these interactions can help us feel more confident and show how we can positively impact the Oxfam experience.
✨Passion for Retail
As a volunteer, your enthusiasm can shine through your motivation. Be ready to share why you love retail and what excites you about working with Oxfam. This shows that you’re eager to learn and contribute, which is always a massive plus!
