Charity Shop Volunteer

Regardless of whether a person is a first-time parent or is experienced, at Home-Start Ards, Comber and Peninsula Area (ACAPA) we know and understand that being a parent has never been easy.  It can be overwhelming, frustrating and lonely at times but that’s where we come in.   Home-Start helps families from ALL walks of life and backgrounds, who have at least one child under the age of five and would like support with the stresses and strains of life or support through a challenging time. At Home-Start we believe 'Childhood can't wait'. 

To help fund the work we do, Home-Start ACAPA, operates 2 Charity Shops.  One based in Comber (52 Castle Street) and the other, a Children's Charity Shop, is in Newtownards (2 Ann Street).  As a Retail Volunteer, you'll be the heart and soul of our shop, bringing joy to our customers and helping to provide an enjoyable shopping experience. When Volunteering with Home-Start ACPA, not only will you be part of a friendly team, you will also:

• Gain retail experience,
• Meet new people,
• Support your local community 
• Develop your skills and knowledge
• Make use of your valuable time for a worth while cause

Volunteers are involved in a wide range of day-day tasks and activities that support that support the Shop Manager/Paid Project Worker.

Normally 4 hours a week would be required.

Within the shop, you would be involved in providing excellent customer service, processing transactions, accepting donations and replenishing stock.

Behind the scenes, volunteers get involved with light/basic shop housekeeping, answering the shop telephone and assisting the Shop Manager/Paid Project Worker with sorting donations and displays.  You will also help to keep the shop tidy and free from any health and safety hazards.

Qualifications/Experience Required:

• Have basic Numeracy and Literacy abilities
• Good communication skills
• Be friendly and approachable
• Be passionate about helping in your local community
• Be able to commit to volunteering for 2-4 hours each week
• Previous retail experience is not essential as training will be provided
• Be honest, reliable and trustworthy

Volunteers can discuss which location they would like to donate their time too - Newtownards or Comber Shop. Please note vacancies at either shop will vary from time to time. 

Full training will be provided (free of charge).

Any role related 'out of pocket' expenses will be reimbursed.

All Volunteers and Staff working at our shops are part of our Scheme Team and the services we provide to local families. They will therefore need to acknowledge all Scheme Policies and sign a Code of Conduct annually.