Charity shop volunteer volunteer roles

Volunteer role

Hub Volunteer

Volunteer manager

Manager

Where you will be based

Property/on-site

Why we want you

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep active.

By volunteering with us in one of our busy Donation Processing Hubs you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

• Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
• Researching valuable and vintage stock.
• This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers.

The skills you need

• We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering
• Full training and support is given for this role - no prior experience is required
• Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others

What's in it for you

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered)
• Access to training and development
• Grow your confidence and meet new people
• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle
• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust
• Possible references for future employers

Disclaimer

Additional information: - We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs, please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments. - We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help cats. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You'll be:

• planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances
• providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Volunteer role

Hub Volunteer

Volunteer manager

Manager

Where you will be based

Property/on-site

Why we want you

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep active.

By volunteering with us in one of our busy Donation Processing Hubs you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

• Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
• Researching valuable and vintage stock.
• This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers.

The skills you need

• We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering
• Full training and support is given for this role - no prior experience is required
• Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others

What's in it for you

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered)
• Access to training and development
• Grow your confidence and meet new people
• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle
• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust
• Possible references for future employers

Disclaimer

Additional information: - We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs, please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments. - We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.

We are looking for a friendly, patient befriending volunteer to visit a lovely gentleman in New Southgate. He is keen to find an attentive listener who will show an interest in hearing his imaginative stories and will giggle at his jokes. He would love for someone to accompany him to McDonalds for a treat, to join him in a bit of music trivia, or sometimes for just a cup of tea and a chit chat.

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

This is an Out and about visit role which means your visits are likely to be longer, very active and the person you visit will often take an active part in planning your outings and activities in the community. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tends to be around a couple of hours, sometimes shorter or longer, depending on what you plan to do.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

- Sitting and having a chat

- Checking in on their well- being

- Going out to a local café/pub for a meal/drink

- Take part on community activities like visiting a place of interest, go shopping etc.

- Enjoying a walk

- A craft activity at home

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

- Friendly and approachable

- Accepting of others who might be different to yourself

- Reliable and patient

- Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

- Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit

- Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training

- Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed

- Meet new people

- Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

About Mencap

Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Ganddee

We connect shoppers to local second-hand shops and thrifting events across the UK.

​Social Media Marketer

Ganddee is the UK and Ireland's largest discovery platform helping shoppers find local second-hand shops / charity shops, car boot sales, flea markets and thrifting events - think 'google maps for thrifting' or 'vinted for people who love to thrift IRL'.

We're building and growing the the UK and Ireland's biggest thrifting community. To that end, we're looking for volunteers who share our love for thrifting and circularity.

Even if everyone works from home/remote in our team, living in the UK or Ireland is a requirement for this opportunity.

The time commitment and "duration of the role" aren't set in stone! Happy to chat and see what works for you if you're excited by this opportunity!

The role entails:

• Creating content on Tiktok

You're perfect for the role if you love creating content on social media. We're not looking for someone with a big following base or "professional influencer skills". But you should be comfortable in front of a camera (we love carousels, so posting pictures is fine too!) :)

We'll teach you best practices for engaging UGC if you're keen to learn social media communications! We have lots of experience on tiktok and insta, so it's a great opportunity to learn more about these platforms! :)

Keen to chat if you love what we do and want to be part of the journey

Minimum Hours per Week:

2-3 hours per week

Duration:

3-4 weeks

We keep local history alive by managing a community centre that houses an internationally important quilt collection. Through exhibitions, workshops, talks and outreach, we promote patchwork, quilting and care for our collection of antique and heritage quilts.

Each year we welcome thousands of visitors through our doors, to explore and learn about our collection and be inspired! The Trustee Treasurer plays a key role in supporting the effective financial governance and sustainability of The Quilt Association. Working closely with the Chair, Secretary, fellow trustees, and any staff responsible for day-to-day finance administration, the Treasurer helps ensure that the organisation manages its finances responsibly, complies with legal and regulatory requirements, and maintains sound financial oversight.

This role is central to helping the Board make informed decisions, safeguard the charity’s resources, and ensure the long-term financial health of the organisation.

Position: Trustee Treasurer

Responsible to: Chair of Trustees

Location: We are based in Llanidloes, Mid Wales, but you don't have to be. We are open to remote and hybrid volunteering, however we do ask that you be within a reasonable distance to attend our key dates and exhibitions.

Hours: Approx 6 hours per month to include the Trustee Board meeting, any preparation work and subgroups.

Expenses: This role is voluntary, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our Expenses policy.

Key responsibilities

As a trustee, you will contribute to the overall development and oversight of organisational strategy. You will be responsible for ensuring the organisation operates in line with its charitable objectives and governing documents, including risk management and compliance with relevant regulations. You'll safeguard the long-term sustainability of the organisation, including financial stability and act as an ambassador for the organisation. As a trustee, you'll also have the opportunity to be involved in the care, conservation, and accessibility of the quilt collection. 

As Treasurer, you will:

• Support the Board in overseeing the financial affairs of the organisation and ensuring that effective financial controls and procedures are in place

• Help ensure that QA operates in line with its governing documents, charity law, company law, and financial regulations

• Work with the Chair, Secretary, and any relevant staff to prepare and present clear financial information to the Board

• Monitor income, expenditure, cash flow, and reserves, helping trustees understand the organisation’s financial position

• Support the preparation and approval of annual budgets and financial forecasts

• Ensure that appropriate accounting records are maintained and that financial reporting is accurate and timely

• Support the preparation and submission of annual accounts, returns, and reports to Companies House and the Charity Commission

• Liaise with independent examiners or auditors where required

• Ensure that appropriate financial policies, controls, and risk management processes are in place

• Contribute to strategic planning and decision-making, particularly in relation to financial sustainability and fundraising opportunities

• Act as a point of contact for trustees regarding financial governance and procedures

• Support trustee induction by ensuring new trustees understand the organisation’s financial responsibilities and position

Person Specification

We are looking for individuals who are committed to the aims of The Quilt Association and who can contribute to the effective governance and financial sustainability of the organisation.

Essential Qualities and Experience

We are looking for people with a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. 

• Confidence working with financial information and budgets

• Ability to think strategically and make sound judgements

• Good communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a board

• A clear understanding of, or willingness to learn about, trustee responsibilities

• An organised and methodical approach to financial oversight and record keeping

• Integrity, accountability, and attention to detail

Desirable Experience

• Experience in finance, bookkeeping, accounting, budgeting, or financial management

• Experience of charity finance, governance, or compliance requirements

• Understanding of financial reporting requirements for charities and companies limited by guarantee

Previous trustee experience is not essential—we will provide induction and support.

Due to the nature of this role, appointment will be subject to a Standard DBS

What you will be doing

• Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
• Researching valuable and vintage stock.
• Photographing and listing items for the online shop.
• Describing items for online listings.
• Preparing items for postage and dispatch .
• This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers.

The skills you need

• We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering
• Full training and support is given for this role - no prior experience is required
• Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others

What's in it for you

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered)
• Access to training and development
• Grow your confidence and meet new people
• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle
• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust
• Possible references for future employers

Disclaimer

Additional information: - We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs, please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments. - We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.

We keep local history alive by managing a community centre that houses an internationally important quilt collection. Through exhibitions, workshops, talks and outreach, we promote patchwork, quilting and care for our collection of antique and heritage quilts.

Each year we welcome thousands of visitors through our doors, to explore and learn about our collection and be inspired! Our Trustees steer and guide The Quilt Asssociation, keeping us growing and sustainable. Working collectively as a Board, Trustees ensure the organisation fulfils its charitable aims, complies with legal and regulatory requirements, and continues to develop as a nationally significant centre for quilting and textile heritage and arts.

Position: Trustee

Responsible to: Chair of Trustees

Location: We are based in Llanidloes, Mid Wales, but you don't have to be. We are open to remote and hybrid volunteering, however we do ask that you be within a reasonable distance to attend our key dates and exhibitions.

Hours: Approx 6 hours per month to include the Trustee Board meeting, any preparation work and subgroups.

Expenses: This role is voluntary, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our Expenses policy.

Key responsibilities

As a trustee, you will contribute to the overall development and oversight of organisational strategy. You will be responsible for ensuring the organisation operates in line with its charitable objectives and governing documents, including risk management and compliance with relevant regulations. You'll safeguard the long-term sustainability of the organisation, including financial stability and act as an ambassador for the organisation. As a trustee, you'll also have the opportunity to be involved in the care, conservation, and accessibility of the quilt collection.

We are looking to build on the skills of our current board and are seeking trustees who can take a lead role in one of the following areas:

• Human Resources - Advising on people management, policies, volunteer engagement, and organisational culture

• IT / Digital - Supporting digital infrastructure, data management, systems, and opportunities for digital engagement

• Textile Conservation - Providing expertise in the care, preservation, and documentation of heritage textiles

• Marketing and Communications - Supporting audience development, promotion of exhibitions and events, and strengthening the organisation’s profile

• Property / Facilities Management - Advising on the maintenance, development, and effective use of Minerva Arts Centre

• Arts, Culture and Heritage Sector Experience - Bringing insight, networks and strategic understanding of the wider cultural landscape

We are looking for people with a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. 

• Ability to think strategically and make sound judgements

• Have good communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a board

• IHave integrity and a clear understanding of (or willingness to learn) trustee responsibilities