Volunteering in a charity shop is one of the most flexible, social, and rewarding ways to give your time. At Save the Children, we have around 80 charity shops across the UK - and every volunteer who walks through the door helps change children's lives around the world. You'll sort donations, serve customers, style displays, and become part of a team that really matters.
Get started today.
Five reasons to volunteer in a charity shop with us
It's fun.
Whether it's dressing a shop window, trying your hand at upcycling, or helping with the social media for a Mary's Living & Giving shop - there's always something interesting to do.
You'll work with a brilliant team.
Our shop volunteers come from all walks of life. You'll make new friends and feel part of something from day one.
It's flexible
Volunteering in our shops is easy and flexible. Most shops just ask you to do a regular few hours per week. Life gets busy; we get that. Your availability is something we will discuss once you've applied.
You'll learn skills that last
From customer service to visual merchandising, you'll pick up real, transferable skills - whether you're returning to work, building confidence, or just want to try something new.
You'll be making a difference
The money raised in our shops helps Save the Children reach children in crisis around the world - from conflict zones to communities hit by climate disasters. The work that you will be doing will be changing the lives of children around the world. Read more about our work.
Our shops
COMMUNITY SHOPS
We have around 80 charity shops across the UK run with the help of volunteers. You'll help create eye-catching displays, sort and price donations, and keep the shop running smoothly.
We’re always on the lookout for talented people who can help us stand out from the competition. It’s a great way to meet people and learn new skills.
And you'll be helping children to not just survive, but to thrive, and go on to change the world.
To find a role near you, search our current opportunities, contact your local shop directly, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call us on 020 3763 0260.
MARY'S LIVING & GIVING
We set up these boutique charity shops with the help of retail expert Mary Portas - every item donated helps children reach their full potential.
The first ever Mary’s Living & Giving shop opened in Stockbridge, Edinburgh in 2009. Over a decade later there are now 19 shops across the UK which have raised over £30million for Save the Children.
As a volunteer you can design shop windows, support events, and help manage the shop's social media.
People also ask
-
Do I have to be a certain age to volunteer?
-
Yes - you need to be 18 or over to volunteer with Save the Children in our shops. We hope to open up opportunities for younger volunteers in the future.
-
How do I start volunteering at a charity shop?
-
Search our current opportunities, enter your postcode to find a shop near you, and click Apply. We'll be in touch to arrange a chat, and some roles may need a reference or basic check. Most people are up and running within a few weeks.
We have almost 80 charity shops across the UK including 19 Mary's Living & Giving stores.
-
What does a charity shop volunteer do?
-
Day-to-day tasks include meeting customers, sorting and pricing donated items, keeping the shop looking its best, and helping with events and promotions. You'll also pick up skills in retail, customer service and visual display.
-
What skills do I need to volunteer in a charity shop?
-
None - just a friendly attitude. All training is provided and we welcome volunteers at every stage of life.
