Oxfam Online Specialist (Volunteer)

Job content

About us

Oxfam is a global movement of millions of people who share the belief that, in a world rich in resources, poverty isn’t inevitable. We respond fast in emergencies, work on long-term projects with communities and campaign for genuine, lasting change.

Our volunteers, staff and those we aim to influence are all guided by our values of empowerment, accountability and inclusiveness.

Our shops

With a network of about 570 shops, our diverse volunteers play an integral role in championing Oxfam’s values, running the shops and promoting our life saving work to the wider community. Through the sale of donated goods and our ethical range of new products, Sourced by Oxfam, our shops raise millions of pounds each year to fund our crucial work to end the injustice of poverty.

Why do we need you?

The Oxfam Online Shop sells a wide range of unique items that have kindly been donated to us by our supporters. Every day our wonderful team of volunteers list hundreds of items, including second-hand fashion & accessories, collectables, books, vintage wedding dresses and so much more!

This is an exciting opportunity for you to gain valuable experience in the rapidly growing e-commerce sector while helping to maximise sales of donated items.

What are your key responsibilities?

• Researching and valuing items identified as having potential to sell online.
• Writing creative and accurate product descriptions.
• Listing items for sale using our online listing tool.
• Taking high quality photos of items.
• Adhering to Oxfam’s policies and guidelines.
• Packaging and posting sold items.

What skills and experience are we looking for?

• Commitment to Oxfam’s values of empowerment, accountability and inclusiveness.
• Good organisational and communications skills.
• Ability to work under own initiative with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a diverse team.
• Basic IT knowledge
• A willingness to learn.
• Enthusiasm & an ability to get "stuck in"!

What will you gain from this opportunity?

Our shops are fun, friendly and supportive environments plus there are usually yummy biscuits!

Volunteering

• is a fantastic way to meet new people and develop other relationships outside of home, work or study.
• allows you to work in a different environment and can be a way of relaxing from a busy lifestyle.
• gives you the chance to grow, build your self-esteem as well as developing skills and the confidence to use them in all walks of life.

This role will provide the opportunity to

• use & develop your skills and experience, particularly in the areas of e-commerce, photography, teamwork, communication and decision-making.
• put your specialist knowledge to good use (please note that prior knowledge is not a requirement).

• gain insight into charity retail e-commerce.

• receive training in researching and valuing items.
• boost your CV by gaining nationally recognised NVQ qualifications in customer service, retail and management (subject to eligibility).

Lunch and local travel expenses reimbursed in line with Oxfam’s policy.

Safeguarding

Oxfam does not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may enquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to DBS checks (at no expense to you). You can find out more information about safeguarding policies on our website.

Learning Opportunities

We will provide you with ongoing support and training throughout your volunteering journey. This includes a full induction and specific training on Health and Safety, Safeguarding and Gift Aid.

What’s Next?

Once we receive your expression of interest we will ask you to complete our volunteer application form. We will then contact you to discuss the opportunity. Please note we do require a positive professional reference and proof of identification prior to any volunteer starting.

Thank you very much for your interesting in volunteering with us. We look forward to having you in our team!

Part-time hours: 4 per week

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

COVID-19 considerations:
These will evolve in line with government restrictions & guidelines:
Training in line with current government guidelines.
Distancing, masks and sanitiser in use throughout the building.
Regular cleaning routines.
Protective screen at the till counter.