At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with customers, sort stock, and create eye-catching displays in our vibrant shop.
- Company: Join Save the Children and make a difference in children's lives worldwide.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, meet new people, and contribute to a meaningful cause.
- Other info: Flexible hours available; volunteer as little or as much as you like.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team and help provide vital support for children in need.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:
- It's fun
- It's flexible
- You'll learn and share skills
- You'll be making a difference
- You'll work with a great team
We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.
Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. Candidates must be over 18.
Volunteering in the shop:
Mary's Living & Giving for Save the Children is unique - a vibrant result of the generous gifts of local individuals and companies being turned around by the skills and passions of volunteer teams, to create a destination retail experience. Selling womenswear, menswear, shoes, and bags to household goods, our shops can be found in the London villages and bring in vital funds for Save the Children.
Our Wandsworth Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.
It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.
Why volunteer with Save the Children? In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing life-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.
Skills and experiences we seek:
We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children.
We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.
What happens next? After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related).
How to apply: Express your interest on email via the apply button.
Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. Candidates must be over 18.
Volunteer/ Shop Volunteer in London employer: SAVE THE CHILDREN-5
At Mary's Living & Giving for Save the Children, we offer a vibrant and inclusive volunteering experience where you can make a real difference in the lives of children both locally and globally. Our Wandsworth shop is not only a fun and flexible environment but also a place where you can learn new skills, engage with a supportive team, and contribute to vital fundraising efforts. Join us in our mission to advocate for children's rights while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow volunteers in a welcoming community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer/ Shop Volunteer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop! Before your trial shift, pop in and have a chat with the current volunteers. This will help you understand the vibe and what’s expected, plus it shows your enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself during the trial shift! Show your personality and let your passion for helping children shine through. We want to see how you interact with the team and customers.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! Whether it’s about the role or the organisation, showing curiosity demonstrates your commitment. Plus, it helps you learn more about how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your trial! A quick thank-you email to the team can go a long way. It shows appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds as they consider your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer/ Shop Volunteer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When 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 passions and why you’re excited about volunteering with us.
Show Your Commitment:Make sure to highlight your willingness to commit time to the role. Whether it’s a couple of hours a week or more, we appreciate knowing how you plan to fit volunteering into your schedule. Flexibility is key!
Emphasise Team Spirit:Since we’re all about teamwork here at Save the Children, mention any experiences where you’ve worked well in a group. It could be anything from school projects to community events – we love to see that collaborative spirit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get the ball rolling. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at SAVE THE CHILDREN-5
✨Know the Cause
Before your interview, take some time to understand Save the Children's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their work and how volunteering in the shop contributes to their goals. This will show your genuine interest and passion for the role.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, be prepared to discuss your experiences working in teams. Think of examples where you collaborated effectively or helped others. Highlighting your ability to work well with diverse groups will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready to Learn
The role doesn’t require prior retail experience, so focus on your willingness to learn new skills. Share instances where you've quickly adapted to new situations or taken on challenges. This will demonstrate your openness and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the shop's operations or the volunteer experience. This shows that you're engaged and interested in making a meaningful contribution. Plus, it gives you a chance to clarify any doubts you might have.
