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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Help in various roles, from sorting donations to serving customers.
- Company: St Leonard's Hospice supports those with life-limiting illnesses through community care.
- Benefits: Gain retail experience, be part of a friendly team, and make a real difference.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and contribute to your local community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: A positive attitude and willingness to learn; no prior experience needed.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available; training provided to help you succeed.
Our 9 shops in York rely on volunteers to help with a variety of roles both on the shop floor and behind the scenes. Our retail department has 14 shops and a Donation Centre across our catchment area and raises vital funds for St Leonard's through the sale of pre-loved goods and is also a valuable face of the Hospice across our local communities.
When am I needed?
Our shops are open Monday - Saturday 9am - 4pm. Morning shifts tend to run 9am - 1pm, Afternoon shifts tend to run 12:30pm - 4:30pm although other shifts can be accommodated as long as they are at least 2 hours in length. Weekly or fortnightly shifts are preferred.
What will I be doing?
We have a variety of roles within the shop and will help find a role that suits you whether you want to be customer facing or would rather help out behind the scenes! Some examples of the types of things you could help with:
- Sorting and pricing clothing, bric-a-brac, books, toys, and other donated items ready for sale
- Serving customers on the shop floor
- Accepting donations from the public and promoting the Gift Aid scheme
- Helping create displays on the shop floor
- Helping to research specialist items for our shop and eBay department
What skills and qualities will I need?
- Positive attitude and ability to provide great customer service
- Full training will be provided so a willingness to learn new skills or bring your own skills and knowledge to the role
- Ability to work under the instruction of the manager and work as part of a team of volunteers
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion
How will I benefit from being a volunteer in the shop?
- Be part of a friendly and inclusive team
- Make a difference to your local Hospice and your local community
- Develop your retail skills and knowledge
Support and Supervision
The St Leonard's Hospice Retail Team (Head Office) will provide you with full training and liaise closely with you over all aspects of your role. Volunteers will be supervised by the Shop Manager and Staff, supported by the Retail Team. The Volunteer Services Team will help guide you through the application and induction process and be your point of contact for general enquiries about volunteering.
Training
Volunteers are required to complete mandatory training modules which are usually delivered via our online platform. Additional, booster and refresher training may be delivered as needed via e-learning, video links or face to face. You may also be invited to attend role specific in person meetings where appropriate.
For all volunteering enquiries please contact the Volunteer Services Office on 01904 777765 or email volunteers@stleonardshospice.org.uk.
About The Hospice
St Leonard's Hospice provides care and support to those living with life-limiting illnesses and to the people they care about. We couldn't carry out the important work we do without a committed and talented team of Volunteers and Supporters - people of all ages, and from all walks of life who help us provide care, assistance, and support throughout the organisation, as well as promoting the work of the hospice in local communities and raising crucial funds.
York Shop Volunteer employer: St Leonard's Hospice
Contact Detail:
St Leonard's Hospice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land York Shop Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with St Leonard's Hospice and its mission. Understanding the values and goals of the organisation will help you connect with the team and demonstrate your genuine interest during any conversations.
✨Tip Number 2
Visit the shops in York to get a feel for the environment and the types of items sold. This hands-on experience can provide you with valuable insights that you can share when discussing your potential role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current volunteers or staff members if possible. They can offer insider tips on what the team values most in a volunteer and may even provide you with a referral.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your availability and flexibility regarding shifts. Showing that you can accommodate their needs will make you a more attractive candidate for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace York Shop Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand what St Leonard's Hospice is looking for in a York Shop Volunteer. Pay attention to the skills and qualities they value, such as a positive attitude and customer service abilities.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the role. If you have previous volunteering or retail experience, be sure to emphasise this. Use clear headings and bullet points for easy readability.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that expresses your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Mention why you want to volunteer at St Leonard's Hospice and how you can contribute to their mission. Keep it concise and focused.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are important in a volunteer role.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Leonard's Hospice
✨Show Your Passion for Volunteering
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for volunteering and how it aligns with your values. St Leonard's Hospice is all about making a difference in the community, so sharing personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment can really resonate.
✨Demonstrate Customer Service Skills
Since you'll be interacting with customers, it's important to showcase your customer service skills. Prepare examples of past experiences where you provided excellent service or resolved issues effectively, as this will show you're ready for the shop floor.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Flexibility
The role requires a willingness to work various shifts, so be prepared to discuss your availability. Highlight your flexibility and readiness to adapt to different roles, whether it's sorting donations or serving customers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don't hesitate to ask questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or specific tasks you'll be involved in. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively.
