Why volunteer in a charity shop?
11th February 2022
There are many reasons why people choose to support Demelza’s retail team; the benefits of volunteering are endless.
At Demelza we are incredibly fortunate to have a dedicated and diverse group of volunteers working in our charity shops, creating spaces our customers and supporters love. Whatever you would like to get out of volunteering, we are here to help make it happen for you. Whether you would like to gain retail work experience, build your confidence, share your own skills or whether you’re looking to meet new people and fill a few spare hours in your week – our Voluntary Services Department will work with you to create the volunteering experience you’re looking for.
Charity shop volunteering
Working in our charity shops is an incredible way to support the vital work we do. For many people, our shops are their main interaction with Demelza and the shops themselves provide an important income stream.
Our shop managers will work with you to find out which aspects of ‘shop life’ you would like to get involved in. Perhaps you would like to be on the shop floor, providing excellent service to our customers – or maybe you’d prefer to be based behind the scenes, organising donations and pricing new stock?
Hear from Demelza's charity shop volunteers
A day-in-the-life of retail volunteer, Clare
Clare, a retail volunteer from Kent shares an insight into what a typical day looks like for her and why she loves volunteering with Demelza.
“I needed something to keep me busy and get me out the house,” Clare recalls. “I have three children, one at primary school and two at high school and wanted something to do during the day while they were at school. My husband was in full-time employment and I needed something that was just for me, where I could meet other people, for my own sanity.”
Clare continues: "If you’re thinking about volunteering, do it! I have gotten so much for volunteering, I’ve gained communication skills and so much confidence. I’ve also got skills that I can include on my CV."
Meet student volunteer, Tanguy
For Student Volunteering Week, in February, we caught up with French business student, Tanguy to find out more about his experience with our Hythe retail team.
Tanguy shares: “Volunteering with Demelza allowed me to improve my English, by talking with the other volunteers who are all very welcoming. What I like most about the organisation is that all the volunteers work in a good atmosphere."
Volunteer with Team Demelza!
We are always keen to speak with anyone who is interested in joining our hard-working and dedicated team of charity shop volunteers. Whether you are able to give one hour a week, or more time, get in touch with our Voluntary Services Department today to begin your volunteering journey.
Charity shop news
Demelza charity shops reopen and see best day ever
The 12 April has been a date eagerly awaited by most people in England, but no one’s been more excited to see retail doors reopen than the hardworking team at Demelza.
Ryan spends the day working in Demelza's Canterbury charity shop
Following the long-awaited reopening of our high street shops, Ryan, the previous CEO of Demelza, spent a day working in our newly refurbished Canterbury store. Here, he shares his experience and what he got up to.
Jack's story - from retail volunteer to manager
As soon as he started his two-week stint, Jack found he loved it, in particular the chance to get to know people of all ages and experiences while supporting a good cause that was close to his heart.