At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage shop sales, tills, and customer service while supporting our Learner team.
- Company: Join a2a, a community-focused organisation empowering adults with learning disabilities.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, meet new people, and contribute to social justice.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team making a real difference in the community.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed; just a passion for helping others.
- Other info: Induction and DBS check provided; creative activities like sewing and woodwork included.
We are looking for someone to join our shop team, ideally on a Friday, to look after the till and sales so our Learner team can go into the community.
The a2a shop has recently undergone changes to reflect the work we carry out within our local community. As part of this, we want to send our shop Learners (adults with Learning Disabilities) out into the community to find new products, sell stock to different outlets, and do customer deliveries.
When this happens, we have to shut the shop to the public, but we’d like to find a volunteer who can work with us to keep the shop open during these times. The volunteer's main responsibility will be managing shop sales, tills, and customer service. They will be able to join in with team activities in the shop, such as sewing, woodwork, and paper craft. We are also open to new ideas being brought in. They will not be responsible for the Learners, who will be supported by other a2a staff.
There will be no lone working, as other a2a groups will be running sessions in the shop’s workshop space. All volunteers will receive an induction and be DBS checked by a2a.
The shop, called Able2antiquities, is located on Princes Street, Yeovil, next door to the Winking Frog Café.
a2aable2achieve (a2a) supports adults with learning disabilities, mental health issues, and related disabilities. We assist individuals in various ways, from developing daily living skills to attending social events like concerts. Our mission is “to enable personal achievement and progression by developing essential skills and self-confidence through learning, living, and working.” We encourage our learners and build on their opportunities through activities, challenges, and personal goals. Learners choose how to run their day and which activities to participate in. We understand their individual needs through personalized care plans and support informed choices. Respect is core to our values, extended to everyone involved with a2a, including parents, guardians, professionals, and staff. Respect is embedded and encouraged throughout our organization.
Community Shop volunteer employer: Spark-A-Change Foundation
Contact Detail:
Spark-A-Change Foundation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Shop volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the mission and values of a2a. Understanding their commitment to supporting adults with learning disabilities will help you connect with the team and demonstrate your alignment with their goals during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Visit the shop, Able2antiquities, before applying. This will give you a feel for the environment and allow you to engage with current volunteers or staff, which can provide valuable insights into the role and the community they serve.
✨Tip Number 3
Think about how your skills can contribute to the shop's activities, like sewing or woodwork. Be ready to share any relevant experience or ideas you have that could enhance the shop's offerings when you meet the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to customer service. Since you'll be managing sales and interacting with customers, having examples of how you've successfully handled similar situations in the past will show your capability and enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Shop volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Community Shop volunteer position. Highlight any relevant experience you have in customer service or working with diverse groups.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Emphasise any previous volunteer work, particularly in community settings or with individuals with disabilities.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that showcases your passion for social justice and wellbeing. Explain why you want to volunteer at a2a and how you can contribute to their mission of supporting adults with learning disabilities.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which is important for a role involving customer service.
How to prepare for a job interview at Spark-A-Change Foundation
✨Understand the Mission
Familiarise yourself with a2a's mission to support adults with learning disabilities. Show your passion for social justice and wellbeing during the interview, as this aligns with the values of the organisation.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have previous experience in retail or working with individuals with disabilities, be sure to mention it. Share specific examples of how you've provided excellent customer service or supported others in a community setting.
✨Be Ready to Share Ideas
The role encourages new ideas, so think about what you could bring to the shop. Whether it's a new product suggestion or a fun activity for the team, be prepared to discuss your thoughts on enhancing the shop experience.
✨Show Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work well in a team. Since you'll be collaborating with other volunteers and staff, share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team environment and contributed to group activities.