Application form

As a volunteer in our Hospice Shops, you will enjoy working as part of a professional team that provides a high-quality retail service. You will assist in the day-to-day running of the shop and help meet agreed performance targets to maximise sales and profitability. Your tasks may include talking to and serving customers, making them feel welcome, and creating eye-catching, stylish window displays.

Activities

• Promote and raise the profile of the Hospice throughout the local community, emphasising the importance of raising funds through the shop.
• Assist and serve customers, providing a service of the highest standard.
• Receive donations, ensuring gift aid and relevant information is collected.
• Assist with processing stock, including sorting, pricing, and hanging donated items.
• Market and present merchandise in an attractive and presentable manner to maintain a positive image of the Hospice.
• Assist the Shop Manager in the rotation of stock with the charity’s other shops.
• Operate the till and handle cash, if required.
• Replenish and restock shelves as needed.
• Sort donated goods into saleable stock and items for recycling.
• Ensure the shop premises are clean and tidy at all times.
• Respond to and resolve customer queries and complaints in person and by telephone.
• Understand and maintain confidentiality at all times, ensuring high standards when communicating information in a confidential manner.

Skills & personal qualities

• Friendly and welcoming manner with excellent customer service skills
• Cheerful nature, good interpersonal skills, and the ability to communicate confidently with the general public
• Comfortable taking the initiative to approach people and offer assistance
• Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to recognise the importance of establishing good rapport with staff
• Good literacy and numeracy skills, and confident in cash handling
• Willingness to undertake training to enhance performance in the role
• Smart and neat appearance in line with organisational standards

Time commitment

Volunteers should be able to commit to a minimum of one regular two- or three-hour shift on an ongoing basis.

Training

• Shop Induction Programme
• Hospice Induction Day Training
• Use of till and card machine
• Participation in regular meetings and any other opportunities will be advised when they occur

Benefits of volunteering

• An opportunity to make a difference and support your local Hospice within the community
• A comprehensive induction to the Hospice and the charitable sector, and the opportunity to develop transferable skills
• Meet new people and become a valued member of the Hospice team
• Flexibility so that your volunteer role fits with your lifestyle
• In-house certifications confirming volunteering involvement and skills achieved, by request
• Enhancement of your CV and personal statement
• Employment references, by request
• Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed

For more information, please contact:

Volunteer Services Manager: volunteering@ppwh.org.uk