Let’s bust a few of the myths we hear and show what volunteering really looks like.
Myth 1: It’s just people who have retired
Truth: Our volunteers are all ages
Volunteers range from 12 to 100 (although for most roles you’ll need to be over 18). Over the last few years we’ve seen an increase in volunteers aged 16-24 in our shops.
Hear from our volunteers - when asked what they most enjoy about volunteering:
"Making new friends and socialising outside of the shop with them where I would not met them and clicked with them " (Shop Volunteer)
"Working with individuals from different backgrounds and ages" (Shop Volunteer)
Myth 2: It takes up too much time
Truth: Many roles are flexible
Some take just a couple of hours a month. And sometimes we just need volunteer for a day as a one-off. You can volunteer around your other commitments.
Hear from our volunteers:
I have a full time job so happy that the store is flexible and happy that I might be able to come in every other week. (Shop Volunteer)
Myth 3: I need skills to be able to volunteer
Truth: Some roles do—but most don’t and training will be provided
Take a look at our opportunities.
Hear from our volunteers:
I like that I’m constantly learning new skills and gaining confidence, especially when dealing with customers. (Shop Volunteer)
"I have developed my spreadsheet for recording and balancing the finances for our Branch" (Fundraising Branch Treasurer)
"My confidence to raise issues locally and campaign nationally has grown" (Parent Campaigner)
Myth 4: I can't afford it
Truth: Although you will not be paid for a volunteering role, you are able to claim travel expenses
Gaining skills by volunteering can also lead to new skills for other aspects of your life including employment.
Myth 5: The only option is volunteering in a shop
Fact: A lot of roles are in our shops – but not all
Our shops are always on the look out for more volunteers and keep an eye on opportunities in other areas such as helping at events or using your voice to stand up for children.
If you do want to volunteer in a shop, there are lots of different tasks involved so no two days are ever the same. One shift you could be sorting and pricing stock in the backrooms and another helping customers with their purchases.
You might be surprised at how easily volunteering fits around your life and what you can gain from it.
