Shop Assistant Volunteer

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Our charity shops are a lifeline for Wessex Cancer Support, providing vital funds that help us continue our work supporting people affected by cancer. Every item donated and every purchase made directly contributes to services that make a real difference in our local communities. Beyond fundraising, our shops also create friendly spaces where volunteers and customers come together, building connections while supporting a cause that matters.

We’re on the hunt for friendly faces to help in our shops, serving customers, pricing stock, keeping things tidy and ringing items through the till. You’ll chat with customers, promote Gift Aid, Wessex Lottery and help keep our shelves looking fabulous.

A few hours of your time gives you an opportunity to make new friends, gain new skills and have a big impact at the same time (and we’re always stocked up with tea and biscuits).

We will provide you with training and support throughout your time with us, and offer flexibility so that you can volunteer as much or little time as you would like.

Role description for a Shop Assistant Volunteer at Wessex Cancer Support

Our shop volunteers play a vital part in keeping our charity shops running smoothly and providing a friendly, welcoming space for the community. As a Shop Assistant Volunteer, you’ll be involved in a variety of tasks, including:

You’ll greet shoppers with a smile, help them find what they’re looking for and make sure every customer feels valued. You’ll also play a key role in receiving donations from members of the public, showing appreciation for their generosity.

Handling sales at the checkout is an important part of the role. You’ll be shown how to use the till confidently and provide helpful, polite service during transactions.

Every donation is special and your role will be to check items, prepare them for sale and display them attractively on the shop floor. It’s a great opportunity to use your creativity and attention to detail.

Helping to keep the shop neat, safe and inviting is something everyone contributes to. From tidying displays to keeping the stockroom organised, these small touches make a big difference and help present us positively.

Personal attributes needed to become a Shop Assistant Volunteer

You don’t need retail experience to volunteer with us, we’ll provide training and support. What matters most are the personal qualities you bring to the role. We’re looking for people who have:

Being approachable, polite and ready to help ensures every visitor feels welcome and supported.

You’ll be part of a friendly volunteer team, so enjoying working with others and being willing to lend a hand is key.

From pricing goods correctly to keeping displays tidy, noticing the little things helps the shop run efficiently and look its best.

No two days are quite the same! Being flexible and willing to turn your hand to different tasks makes the role varied and rewarding.

Volunteering in our shop is a chance to meet new people, develop skills, and make a real difference, all while having fun and supporting a good cause.