Fiona Finchett / Oxfam

Outside of an Oxfam shop showing the oxfam logo and a colourful window display

Volunteer in an Oxfam Shop this Christmas

This Christmas, Oxfam needs volunteers to help in shops, superstores and Online Hubs across the UK. But volunteering is about more than the role itself. It's about meeting new people, trying something new and being part of a community that makes a difference. Give a shift this Christmas. You might be surprised by what you get back.

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Give a shift. Get a community.

Gabi Torres/Beth Moseley, Oxfam

Banner promoting Oxfam volunteering, featuring Oxfam shop items, volunteers in-store and community connections, with the message: “Give a Shift”.

Why volunteer in an Oxfam shop this Christmas?

Christmas is a busy time in our shops, and there’s plenty to get stuck into. You could spend a shift sorting through donations, pricing books, creating a great fashion rail or helping your local shop get ready for the Christmas rush.

You’ll be part of a local team, meeting people in your community and helping keep the shop running at one of its busiest times of year.

For many volunteers, it's more than just giving a few hours. It's a chance to build confidence, connect with others, learn new skills and find a sense of purpose while helping raise vital funds for Oxfam's work around the world.

Looking to volunteer with colleagues? Find out more about our employee volunteering opportunities and how your workplace can get involved with Oxfam.

What Christmas volunteering roles are available?

From serving customers and sorting donations to merchandising stock and supporting shop operations, there are plenty of Christmas volunteering opportunities available in Oxfam shops.

Whether you're looking to volunteer at Christmas for a few hours a week or to take on a regular shift, we'll help you find a role that fits around your skills and availability.

How to start volunteering this Christmas

Apply or register your interest

Apply directly for a role you're interested in, or register your interest and we'll help connect you with opportunities near you.

Complete the recruitment process

We'll arrange an informal chat, carry out ID checks and request one reference.

Get ready to volunteer

Complete your induction and any required training, so you feel confident in your new role.

Start your first shift

Join your local shop team and help make a difference this Christmas.

Christmas volunteering FAQs

No previous experience is needed. We'll provide training and support to help you feel confident in your role.

The time you give is flexible and will depend on your role and availability. We'll discuss this with you during the recruitment process and agree a volunteering pattern that works for both you and the shop.

No, Oxfam shops are closed on Christmas Day. Festive opening hours may vary, so it's always worth checking with your local shop before visiting or volunteering.

Yes. You're welcome to apply and volunteer with a friend. Roles and availability may vary by shop, so speak to your local team to find out what's possible.

No two days are quite the same. You could sort and price donations, create displays, serve customers or help with books, fashion, homewares and more.

Apply for a volunteering opportunity, then talk to your local shop team about the days and times that work best for you and your schedule.

Register your interest

Not ready to apply for a role today? With nearly 500 Oxfam shops across the UK, you could volunteer in a high street shop, superstore or one of our Online Hubs. Register your interest to hear about future opportunities and find out more about volunteering with Oxfam.