Human rights volunteer volunteer roles

Fine Cell Work (FCW) is a UK-based rehabilitation charity and social enterprise. We are supported by an incredible team of prison volunteers who are the link between the charity and the stitchers we work with in prison. Our volunteers run fortnightly stitching groups in the prisons we work with to facilitate our stitchers’ production of high-quality needlework.

Our prison volunteers work in small teams to teach our stitchers’ embroidery and needlepoint, organise their group sessions, and liaise with the prison and FCW office.

What you will do as a prison volunteer:

• Teach people in prison how to stitch and support the completion of our premade kits in our cell groups, which consist of around 10-15 stitchers.
• Communicate with staff at our hub in Battersea to receive kits and supplies for your group and send back completed work for your stitchers to be paid.
• Develop stitchers’ skills and confidence by encouraging them to take responsibility as peer mentors.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity and sharing our vision and values throughout your volunteering.

Who we are looking for:

• Skills in embroidery and/or needlepoint or a willingness to learn to stitch is essential for this role.
• Ideally some teaching experience or experience working with socially-excluded groups.
• Someone with a non-judgemental attitude and commitment to rehabilitation.
• Someone who is an excellent team worker.
• Someone who is good at observing personal boundaries.

Commitment: our stitching groups run for 2 hours every fortnight, so with travel time and some admin work after groups we ask prison volunteers to set aside a morning or afternoon every 2 weeks.

You must be over 18 for this role with the ability to travel to the prison. Travel expenses will be reimbursed by the charity.

Volunteer Role Profile
Volunteer Role Online Shop Listing Volunteer
Volunteer Manager Shop Manager
Where you will be based Shop
Why we want you
Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged
18 and over.
We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over to create clear,
accurate, and appealing online listings that convert into sales.
By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces you will be
raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and
meeting some incredible people.
What you will be doing
Writing clear, descriptive titles
Creating accurate, honest item descriptions
Selecting correct categories and item specifics
Uploading and organising photos in listings
Entering pre-agreed prices accurately
Saving/publishing listings correctly
Labelling and storing listed items using the location system
Optional: Taking clear, well-lit, in-focus photos from multiple angles
The skills you need
Are confident using a computer
Have strong attention to detail
Enjoy writing or organising information
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.

o you want to make a real difference?

At Oxfam, we're not just selling pre-loved items and unique finds – we're working together to build a radically better world. With your help, we will turn pre-loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide.

As a stock volunteer, you'll be behind-the-scenes, sorting and organising donations to keep our retail spaces well-stocked. Your keen eye for detail and passion for helping others will ensure our customers always have a great choice of items to buy.

Here's why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:

Be a Second-hand Superhero: In our high street shops, Ecommerce Hubs and Online Shop, people like you help create exciting and inspiring collections – retail therapy with a purpose!

Increase Your Skills: Gain valuable retail experience you can add to your CV, such as following instructions, customer service, and teamwork.

Find Your Community: Meet like-minded people who share your passion for a fairer world.

Flexibility: We know life gets busy. That's why we offer flexible volunteering options. A few hours a week is all it takes to make a big difference.

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it!

What happens next?

After you apply, the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you'd like to do in the shop. From there, you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!

More about this role

DOWNLOADS

Stock Volunteer.pdf

OTHER INFORMATION

Minimum age 18

Shop based

LOCATION

12a George St, Bath, Bath and North East Somerset, BA1 2EH, United Kingdom

WHEN YOU CAN VOLUNTEER

Mo

Tu

We

Th

Fr

Sa

Su

APPLY

3 open spaces

Related opportunities

Till Volunteer (Aberdeen Scotland)

Fixed-term

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it!

With your help, we will turn pre-loved treasures into resources that empower communities.

View details

Retail Volunteer (Shop Volunteer at Woodseats, Sheffield)

Ongoing

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it!

With your help, we will turn pre-loved treasures into resources that empower communities.

Oxfam Till Volunteers Barnard Castle Shop, 1 Horsemarket, Barnard Castle, County Durham DL12 8LY

Do you enjoy meeting people and chatting?

Then this volunteer opportunity would suit 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.

When:

· Monday to Saturday and Sundays – Am/Pm – 4 hours or just even 2 hours we are very flexible.

What you will be doing:

· Chatting to Customers - giving great customer service on the till.

· Operating the Till

· Keeping the shop floor clean and tidy

· Accepting donations from members of the public

· Assisting with stocking the shop floor

· Full Training and support are given for this role – no prior experience necessary.

What's in it for you:

· Lunch expenses paid for 5 hours or more volunteered in one shift up to £7.00

· Travel expenses are paid when travelling by bus, parking expenses are paid if driving and petrol expenses are paid at the discretion of the Shop Manager.

· Learn new skills, gain experience, build confidence, and meet new people and make new friends.

Disclaimer: Additional Information

· We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any 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 do ask for one professional reference, however if this is not possible, we have a Reference Risk Assessment process form you can complete with the Shop Manager instead.

· Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

·  We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

PEN International is looking for 1 or 2 volunteers to work closely with PEN International’s Congress and Events Officer and other members of staff to support the planning and delivery of the 92nd Annual PEN International Congress, which will take place online in September 2026.

The PEN Congress is a major event that brings together PEN Centres and members from around the world to shape the direction of PEN’s work, discuss key issues affecting writers and freedom of expression, strengthen international networks, exchange ideas, and celebrate literature in all its forms.

This volunteer role will focus on supporting the preparation and online delivery of Committee Meetings and the General Assembly. The successful candidate will assist with administrative, logistical, and technical tasks before and during the Congress period, helping to ensure the smooth delivery of meetings involving participants from across different countries, languages, and time zones.

The position is ideal for someone interested in human rights, literature, international affairs, cultural management, or event management, and who is looking to gain practical experience within an international membership organisation.

Fine Cell Work (FCW) is a UK-based rehabilitation charity and social enterprise. We are supported by an incredible team of prison volunteers who are the link between the charity and the stitchers we work with in prison. Our volunteers run fortnightly stitching groups in the prisons we work with to facilitate our stitchers’ production of high-quality needlework.

Our prison volunteers work in small teams to teach our stitchers’ embroidery and needlepoint, organise their group sessions, and liaise with the prison and FCW office.

What you will do as a prison volunteer:

• Teach people in prison how to stitch and support the completion of our premade kits in our cell groups, which consist of around 10-15 stitchers.
• Communicate with staff at our hub in Battersea to receive kits and supplies for your group and send back completed work for your stitchers to be paid.
• Encourage and help stitchers to complete our Open College Network certifications in creative needlework.
• Develop stitchers’ skills and confidence by encouraging them to take responsibility as peer mentors.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity and sharing our vision and values throughout your volunteering.

Who we are looking for:

• Skills in embroidery and/or needlepoint or a willingness to learn to stitch is essential for this role.
• Ideally some teaching experience or experience working with socially-excluded groups.
• Someone with a non-judgemental attitude and commitment to rehabilitation.
• Someone who is an excellent team worker.
• Someone who is good at observing personal boundaries.

Commitment: our stitching groups run for 2 hours every fortnight, so with travel time and some admin work after groups we ask prison volunteers to set aside a morning or afternoon every 2 weeks.

You must be over 18 for this role with the ability to travel to the prison. Travel expenses will be reimbursed by the charity.

RETAIL VOLUNTEER SUPERVISOR  - Nantwich

Are you ready to develop your retail and leadership skills?... Then this could be the volunteer role for you! We're looking for enthusiastic people to support the management teams in running one of our fabulous community shops.

From helping to recruit new volunteers and leading the shop team when the manager is off, to driving sales and donations and creating eye catching window displays this is a varied and engaging role that will have an impact on the store, the local community and the fight to defend the right to a safe home.

Because Home is Everything

Suggested Involvement: It’s up to you! We have volunteers who support for one hour a week and others who volunteer more. Many people volunteer for a morning or an afternoon each week, but we’ll have a chat about your availability after you’ve applied. 

Availability: The shop is open Monday - Saturday 09:00-17:00

Location: 44 Beam Street, Nantwich, Cheshire

Supervised by: Community Shop Manager 

Why get involved with Shelter? Home is a human right. It's our foundation and it's where we thrive. Yet, every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency. 

We are passionate about what we do and are proud to give pre-loved items a second chance and represent Shelter on the High Street.  Our shop teams ensure fighting the housing emergency never felt so fun.

Main Tasks can include:  

• Supporting our Community Shop Managers to run an exciting and inviting store.
• Using the till system to process sales, refunds and Gift Aid 
• Opening and/or closing the shop, including cashing up at the end of the day 
• Supporting other volunteers
• Using and updating our volunteer database
• Providing excellent customer service 
• Photographing and selling key items on our online shop 
• Creating posts to promote our shops on Instagram

Skills and Experiences Required: Not essential as full training will be provided, however some retail or supervisory experience would be beneficial, as would confidence in the use of technology.

What’s important to us is that you want to be part of our team and come ready to share your individual skills and experiences.  

We do ask for a willingness to follow Shelter’s policies, including volunteering, health & safety, equality & diversity, safeguarding, confidentiality & data protection.  

You will be required to complete some essential learning and a full induction before you start in this role. 

Induction, Learning and Development

To enable you to take part in this opportunity Shelter will:  

• Provide you with a Volunteer Handbook and all relevant Policies/Procedures
• Provide learning including Health and Safety, Data Protection and Safeguarding
• Provide an on-the-job induction  
• Pay “out of pocket” expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy

Benefits of Volunteering with Shelter:  

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness  
• Gain valuable work experience in a supervisory role 
• Be part of a great team, both in your shop and within Shelter Retail 
• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills 
• Enhance your CV – this is the perfect role for you to demonstrate the step from sales advisor to supervisory/management roles  
• Opportunities to develop your retail skills further out at events like Charity Supermarket and pop-up shops 

What Our Volunteers Say:

“Shelter was one of the first physical places where I felt I could fully be myself."

“Genuinely the highlight of my week. Feel like I’m part of something bigger.”

“Helping in the shop gives me satisfaction and gives me a place to go if feeling lonely and down.”

Next Steps: Please complete an application form online. After you have applied, we will review your application and invite successful candidates to attend a recruitment conversation.

Please note, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. As the role you are applying for has been designated as a regulated role, we will require you to undertake a basic Criminal Record Check. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us. It may limit the different ways that you can get involved, but please contact us if you require more information.  

Volunteer Role Profile
Volunteer Role Online Shop Listing Volunteer
Volunteer Manager Shop Manager
Where you will be based Guisborough Shop
Why we want you
Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged
18 and over.
We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over to create clear,
accurate, and appealing online listings that convert into sales.
By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces you will be
raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and
meeting some incredible people.
What you will be doing
Writing clear, descriptive titles
Creating accurate, honest item descriptions
Selecting correct categories and item specifics
Uploading and organising photos in listings
Entering pre-agreed prices accurately
Saving/publishing listings correctly
Labelling and storing listed items using the location system
Optional: Taking clear, well-lit, in-focus photos from multiple angles
The skills you need
Are confident using a computer
Have strong attention to detail
Enjoy writing or organising information
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.

Oxfam Volunteers – Wigton, Cumbria

Oxfam GB

Job details

Job type

• Volunteer – Ecommerce – (Online)

Shift and schedule

• 4 - 8-hour shift – we are very flexible
• Location: 47 High Street, Wigton, Cumbria CA7 9NJ - Full job description

Oxfam's Wigton Shop is looking for Shop Volunteers to help Oxfam’s fight to support the world’s most vulnerable communities.

We’re looking for volunteers who can give 4-8 hours (or more!) of their time in the shop each week, and we’re excited to welcome brand new volunteers to our stores!

Right now, we're looking for people to help in the shop in us with our ecommerce/online department!

Location: Oxfam 47 High Street, Wigton, Cumbria CA7 9NJ

Become a volunteer!

· List donated items for sale online

· Dispatch items – (Picking/ Packaging and Posting).

· Expand your computer skills

· Learn what Ecommerce is all about.

Available Shifts:

· Mondays

· Tuesdays

· Wednesdays

· Thursdays

· Fridays

· Saturdays

Whatever your skills or interests, there’s something for everyone…

Why be a volunteer?

Your time will make a huge difference. We estimate one four-hour shift will, on average, provide enough income to enable Oxfam to provide life-saving handwashing facilities for 81 people.

Volunteering also has a positive impact on wellbeing, with an incredible 7 in 10 volunteers saying that their charitable actions were beneficial for their mental health.

Benefits of becoming a Volunteer:

· Gain genuine experience working in a retail environment.

· Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience, and develop your CV.

· Great way to meet new people & be part of a community. Volunteering can help you feel part of something outside your friends and family.

· Be part of a fantastic team and make a positive change to the world.

· Opportunity to utilise and develop your transferable skills.

Volunteering with Oxfam will give you the skills, confidence and experience you need to build your CV and boost your employability. Problem solving, communication, working with others and familiarity with the workplace are universally valued by employers.

No experience is necessary as full training, and an induction will be given. You don't need to be computer literate to join our team; there are volunteer opportunities for all. All we ask is that you’re happy to work as part of a diverse and inclusive team.

We can be flexible around parenting, caring, health, employment, education, and any other commitments you have.

Tempted? Apply now!

Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

· We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

· *NB: due to the current capacity of some shops, it may be that you will be placed on a waiting list and/or, if you are under 18, until a shop has enough staff and/or volunteers DBS cleared. The Shop Manager will discuss this with you.

Job Type: Volunteer – Ecommerce (Online)

Work Location: In person at the Wigton Oxfam Shop

Help turn great items into great sales

Love uncovering hidden gems?

As an Online Shop Stock Selection & Pricing Volunteer, you'll be based onsite, at the heart of our online shop, sorting through donated items and deciding what could shine online. You'll assess condition, research value, and set fair prices that help maximise income.

Every item you prepare and price correctly helps raise vital funds for Oxfam's work tackling poverty and inequality around the world – from supporting communities affected by crisis to helping people build sustainable futures.

It's a hands-on, rewarding role where your decisions directly turn donations into life-changing impact.

Here's why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:

Be a Second-hand Superhero

Help uncover hidden gems and give them a new life online, raising money for a powerful cause.

Increase Your Skills

Build experience in stock handling, product assessment and pricing – great for developing retail and e-commerce skills.

Find Your Community

Join a friendly, supportive team working towards a fairer world.

Flexibility

A few hours a week is all it takes to make a big difference.

A Role That Works for You

This role may suit someone who enjoys discovering hidden value and making informed decisions. It offers a blend of hands-on sorting, research and problem-solving, with the opportunity to assess a wide variety of donated items and determine their potential.

Someone who is naturally curious, enjoys learning about different products, and takes satisfaction in attention to detail could really thrive in this role.

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we'd love you to be a part of it!

What happen's next?

After you apply, the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat.

This is not an interview - just a chance to learn more about the role and discuss what you'd like to do.

Help turn great items into great sales

Be part of the final step that gets orders to customers.

As an Online Shop Order Packing Volunteer, you'll be onsite carefully picking, packing and dispatching items, helping to ensure each sale is completed smoothly. Every parcel you send represents funds raised for Oxfam's work - supporting communities through crisis, tackling inequality and helping people build better futures.

If you enjoy practical, hands-on tasks and being part of a team making a real difference, this is a great way to get involved.

Here's why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:

Be a Second-hand Superhero

Play a key role in getting sold items to customers and completing the journey from donation to impact.

Increase Your Skills

Build experience in logistics, organisation and order processing.

Find Your Community

Be part of a supportive and purpose-driven team.

Flexibility

Give your time in a way that works for you.

A Role That Works for You

This role may suit someone who enjoys practical, hands-on tasks and the satisfaction of completing a job from start to finish. It offers clear processes, a steady routine, and the opportunity to stay active while working as part of a supportive team.

If you like being organised, paying attention to detail, and seeing the direct results of your efforts, you could really thrive in this role.

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we'd love you to be a part of it!

What happens next?

After you apply, the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat.

This is not an interview - just a chance to learn more about the role and discuss what you'd like to do.

Oxfam Retail  Volunteers – Barnard Castle

Oxfam GB

Job details

Job type

• Volunteer

Shift and schedule

• 4 - 8-hour shift – we are very flexible
• Location: 1 Horsemarket, Barnard Castle DL12 8LY

Full job description

Oxfam's Barnard Castle Shop is looking for Shop Volunteers to help Oxfam’s fight to support the world’s most vulnerable communities.

We’re looking for volunteers who can give 4-8 hours (or more!) of their time in the shop each week, and we’re excited to welcome brand new volunteers to our stores!

Right now, we're looking for people to help in the shop in our stock room and with our ecommerce/online department!

Location:

Become a volunteer!

We like to give volunteers an opportunity to try a range of areas before they find something that suits them. You might become a Retail Volunteer, Till Volunteer, Stock Volunteer. Or you might find yourself in a more specialist role such as an Ecommerce Volunteer, a Shift Lead Volunteer, or even a Stock Specialist Volunteer.

Whatever your skills or interests, there’s something for everyone…

Why be a volunteer?

Your time will make a huge difference. We estimate one four-hour shift will, on average, provide enough income to enable Oxfam to provide life-saving handwashing facilities for 81 people.

Volunteering also has a positive impact on wellbeing, with an incredible 7 in 10 volunteers saying that their charitable actions were beneficial for their mental health.

Benefits of becoming a Volunteer:

· Gain genuine experience working in a retail environment.

· Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience, and develop your CV.

· Great way to meet new people & be part of a community. Volunteering can help you feel part of something outside your friends and family.

· Be part of a fantastic team and make a positive change to the world.

· Opportunity to utilise and develop your transferable skills.

Volunteering with Oxfam will give you the skills, confidence and experience you need to build your CV and boost your employability. Problem solving, communication, working with others and familiarity with the workplace are universally valued by employers.

No experience is necessary as full training, and an induction will be given. You don't need to be computer literate to join our team; there are volunteer opportunities for all. All we ask is that you’re happy to work as part of a diverse and inclusive team.

We can be flexible around parenting, caring, health, employment, education, and any other commitments you have.

Tempted? Apply now!

Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

· We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

· *NB: due to the current capacity of some shops, it may be that you will be placed on a waiting list and/or, if you are under 18, until a shop has enough staff and/or volunteers DBS cleared. The Shop Manager will discuss this with you.

Job Type: Volunteer

Work Location: In person

Volunteer Role Profile
Volunteer Role Online Shop Listing Volunteer
Volunteer Manager Shop Manager
Where you will be based Helmsley Oxfam  Shop
Why we want you
Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged
18 and over.
We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over to create clear,
accurate, and appealing online listings that convert into sales.
By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces you will be
raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and
meeting some incredible people.
What you will be doing
Writing clear, descriptive titles
Creating accurate, honest item descriptions
Selecting correct categories and item specifics
Uploading and organising photos in listings
Entering pre-agreed prices accurately
Saving/publishing listings correctly
Labelling and storing listed items using the location system
Optional: Taking clear, well-lit, in-focus photos from multiple angles
The skills you need
Are confident using a computer
Have strong attention to detail
Enjoy writing or organising information
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.

RETAIL VOLUNTEER SUPERVISOR  

Canterbury Shop

Are you ready to develop your retail and leadership skills?... Then this could be the volunteer role for you! We're looking for enthusiastic people to support the management teams in running one of our fabulous community shops.

From helping to recruit new volunteers and leading the shop team when the manager is off, to driving sales and donations and creating eye catching window displays this is a varied and engaging role that will have an impact on the store, the local community and the fight to defend the right to a safe home.

Because Home is Everything

Suggested Involvement: It’s up to you! We have volunteers who support for one hour a week and others who volunteer more. Many people volunteer for a morning or an afternoon each week, but we’ll have a chat about your availability after you’ve applied. 

Availability: The shop is open Monday - Saturday 09:00-17:00 and Sunday 10:00-16:00

Location: Canterbury, Kent

Supervised by: Community Shop Manager 

Why get involved with Shelter? Home is a human right. It's our foundation and it's where we thrive. Yet, every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency. 

We are passionate about what we do and are proud to give pre-loved items a second chance and represent Shelter on the High Street.  Our shop teams ensure fighting the housing emergency never felt so fun.

Main Tasks can include:  

• Supporting our Community Shop Managers to run an exciting and inviting store.
• Using the till system to process sales, refunds and Gift Aid 
• Opening and/or closing the shop, including cashing up at the end of the day 
• Supporting other volunteers
• Using and updating our volunteer database
• Providing excellent customer service 
• Photographing and selling key items on our online shop
• Creating posts to promote our shops on Instagram

Skills and Experiences Required: Not essential as full training will be provided, however some retail or supervisory experience would be beneficial, as would confidence in the use of technology.

What’s important to us is that you want to be part of our team and come ready to share your individual skills and experiences.  

We do ask for a willingness to follow Shelter’s policies, including volunteering, health & safety, equality & diversity, safeguarding, confidentiality & data protection.  

You will be required to complete some essential learning and a full induction before you start in this role. 

Induction, Learning and Development: To enable you to take part in this opportunity Shelter will:  

• Provide you with a Volunteer Handbook and all relevant Policies/Procedures
• Provide learning including Health and Safety, Data Protection and Safeguarding
• Provide an on-the-job induction  
• Pay “out of pocket” expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy

Benefits of Volunteering with Shelter:  

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness  
• Gain valuable work experience in a supervisory role 
• Be part of a great team, both in your shop and within Shelter Retail 
• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills 
• Enhance your CV – this is the perfect role for you to demonstrate the step from sales advisor to supervisory/management roles  
• Opportunities to develop your retail skills further out at events like Charity Supermarket and pop-up shops 

What Our Volunteers Say:

“Shelter was one of the first physical places where I felt I could fully be myself."

“Genuinely the highlight of my week. Feel like I’m part of something bigger.”

“Helping in the shop gives me satisfaction and gives me a place to go if feeling lonely and down.”

Next Steps: Please complete an application form online. After you have applied, we will review your application and invite successful candidates to attend a recruitment conversation.

Please note, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. As the role you are applying for has been designated as a regulated role, we will require you to undertake a basic Criminal Record Check. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us. It may limit the different ways that you can get involved, but please contact us if you require more information.