Ria volunteering at Brighton London Road Oxfam shop. Gabi Torres / Oxfam

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Current opportunities

Volunteer in an Oxfam shop

People become Oxfam charity shop volunteers for all sorts of reasons. But there's one thing that unites them: they're one-of-a-kind.

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Think global, volunteer local

Oxfam retail volunteers make a real impact every shift and help us work towards a kinder and radically better world, one without poverty. For example, by giving just 4 hours a week for a year, you could help fund two Oxfam Water Tanks that provide safe, clean drinking water to a crisis-affected community.

You can volunteer in one of our over 500 shops, superstores or hubs across the UK from the age of 14. Volunteering at Oxfam is the perfect way to make friends and gain new skills, whether you're looking to improve your CV, take on a new challenge or just have fun!

Man smiling leaning over a desk with a pen in his hand
“

I just love seeing what kind of things people bring in”

Kai, Oxfam shop volunteer

Han, Volunteer at Skipton shop. Louise Lazell / Oxfam

What to expect from volunteering

Volunteering in an Oxfam shop is a rewarding and hands-on experience where you'll be part of a friendly, inclusive team making a real difference. Whether you're sorting donations, serving customers, managing online sales, or supporting the shop’s day-to-day operations, every task helps raise vital funds to fight poverty and inequality. You’ll gain valuable skills, build confidence, and meet people from all walks of life – all while contributing to a cause you care about. No two days are the same, and there's a role to suit every interest, ability, and level of experience.

Find the volunteering path that’s right for you

A woman smiling and holding up clothes

I'm a student:

Start your journey, build your future. Oxfam offers voluntary placements to help you build skills for a career in sustainable fashion.
Group of people standing in a bookshop, they are all smiling and one is giving the thumbs up sign.

I'm giving a day:

Make a big impact in just a few hours. We have opportunities for Employer Supported Volunteering in our shops.
Volunteer Mahiro smiling in the Islington Oxfam Shop during her volunteer shift.

I'm ready to help:

Use your skills to fight poverty. Whatever your skills and experience, there's a role for everyone at Oxfam.

Want to know more before applying?

There are loads of reasons to volunteer in a charity shop...

  • Working in a charity shop as a volunteer is fun! You'll be joining a community of like-minded people.
  • Volunteering is a great way to make new friends and is proven to boost your mental wellbeing.
  • Whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days, all our volunteers make a real difference every shift.
  • Learn new skills and boost your CV – Oxfam was recognised as the 2022 Graduate Employer of Choice for 'Charity & Voluntary Work' at the Times Graduate Recruitment Awards.

Join us for an online session on Microsoft Teams to learn more about volunteering in a UK Oxfam shop and how you can make a positive change in the world! This session is open to anyone over 18.

Register for our next session on 21st November at 10am

Volunteer in your local Oxfam shop

Whatever your skills or interests, there’s something for everyone…

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Questions about volunteering

Volunteers are the heartbeat of our movement to end poverty around the world. Find everything you need to know about volunteering with Oxfam.

Explore Our Retail Volunteer Roles

Ready to be part of something bigger? Explore our retail volunteer roles and join the movement to fight poverty with love.

The impact of retail volunteering

Each week, Oxfam retail volunteers across the UK help tackle poverty and protect the planet, with their efforts supporting communities around the world.