Retail assistant

Oxfam is a development, advocacy, and relief agency working to put an end to poverty worldwide.  The Oxfam shops sell second-hand clothes, books and bric-a-brac as well as trade fair goods to help raise money for the charity.

They are looking for volunteer retails assistants to help in their Addlestone shop.  Volunteers are asked to work three hour slots or hours to suit.  If you work a whole day in the shop you will have your travel costs reimbursed and lunch.

The shop is open Monday to Thursday 9 - 5.15 pm; Friday 9 - 5pm; Saturday 9 - 5pm and Sunday 10 - 4pm.

DofE students may be considered.

What skills do I need?

Key responsibilities: Depending on the needs of the shop and your interest, you may be involved in the following:

• Using the shop's guidelines to sort and price donated clothes, books, homewares etc.
• Receive donations from the public and ensure they are stored safely
• Providing excellent customer service on the shop floor
• Creating attractive displays across the shop
• Promoting our Gift Aid scheme
• Promoting our exciting sustainable fashion campaigns such as Second Hand September

We encourage our shop volunteers to develop an understanding of all aspects of the shop's work so that they can support the whole team as necessary.

Skills and Competencies: You do not need specific skills and experience but the following would be useful:

• Commitment to Oxfam's values of empowerment, accountability and inclusiveness
• Ability to work within Oxfam's policies and shop guidelines
• An interest in retail and customer service
• Ability to work well as part of a team and under own initiative
• Willingness to learn

What this role can offer the Volunteer:

• You will be joining thousands of volunteers who "won't live with poverty"
• Learn about Oxfam's humanitarian, development and campaigning work
• Opportunity to utilise and develop your portfolio of skills and experience
• Gain valuable experience in retail at an international charity
• Lunch and local travel expenses can be reimbursed in line with Oxfam's policy

Volunteers are to be good with people, and have a friendly personality.