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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with customers, sort stock, and create eye-catching displays in a 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.
- Why this job: Have fun while helping children and gaining experience in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Flexible hours available; perfect for students looking to make an impact.
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. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. Candidates must be over 16 to apply.
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 women’swear, men’swear, 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 Barnes 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 live‑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.
Shop Volunteer – Barnes employer: Save the Children
Contact Detail:
Save the Children Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Shop Volunteer – Barnes
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop! Before your trial shift, pop in and have a look around. Familiarise yourself with the layout and the types of items they sell. This will help you feel more comfortable and confident when you start volunteering.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself during the trial shift! Show your personality and enthusiasm for the role. The team is looking for genuine people who are passionate about making a difference, so let that shine through.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! Don’t hesitate to reach out to existing volunteers or staff during your trial. They’ll appreciate your eagerness to learn and it shows you’re committed to being a great team player.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your trial! A quick thank-you email expressing your excitement about the opportunity can go a long way. It shows your interest and keeps you on their radar as they make decisions.
We think you need these skills to ace Shop Volunteer – Barnes
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 learn and be part of a team. We love volunteers who are eager to dive in and help out, so mention any previous experiences that show your dedication, even if they’re not directly related to retail.
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we want to know all about you, it’s important to keep your application clear and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon – we’re looking for genuine enthusiasm, not a fancy vocabulary!
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 you started on this exciting journey with Save the Children. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Save the Children
✨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
As a Shop Volunteer, being a team player is crucial. Think of examples from your past experiences where you worked well in a team or helped others. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to demonstrate your collaborative spirit.
✨Be Open to Learning
Since no prior retail experience is required, highlight your willingness to learn new skills. Discuss any previous situations where you adapted quickly or picked up new tasks. This will reassure them that you're ready to embrace the training they provide.
✨Ask Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the shop's community involvement or what a typical day looks like for a volunteer. It shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if this role is the right fit for you.
