Bookshop Volunteer; Low Petergate

Bookshop Volunteer (Low Petergate, York)

Please note:
This role is only suitable for applicants aged 18 and over.

At Oxfam, we’re not just selling pre‑loved books and unique finds – we’re working together to build a radically better world. With your help, we will turn pre‑loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide.

• Be a Second‑hand Book Hero – In our high street shops, Ecommerce Hubs and Online Shop, people help create exciting and inspiring book collections – giving pre‑loved books a new life and purpose.
• Share Your Interests – If you have a particular interest, you can build on it to gain valuable retail experience such as merchandising, customer service, and teamwork.
• Find Your Community – Meet like‑minded people who share your passion for a fairer world.
• Flexibility – We know life gets busy. That’s why we offer flexible volunteering options. A few hours a week is all it takes to make a big difference.

After you apply, the manager will invite you to an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you’d like to do in the shop. From there, you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved in whatever area of the shop interests you.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed; we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in.

Being a volunteer gives you the time to gain work experience, meet new people, and stay active.

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing bookshops you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all while learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

• Undertaking shop‑related tasks agreed with the Manager (e.g., selecting, sorting, pricing donated stock).
• Chatting to customers and giving great service at the till.
• Researching valuable and vintage stock.
• Visual merchandising: creating eye‑catching window and in‑store displays.
• Photographing and listing items for the online shop.
• Occasionally lifting boxes (we prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training).

• Reliability and punctuality for your volunteering.
• Willingness to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others.

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered).
• Access to training and development.
• Growth of confidence and meeting new people.
• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle.
• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust.
• Possible references for future employers.

We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs, please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments. We conduct s for all volunteers and require one reference upon application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.

69 Low Petergate, York, YO1 7HY
, United Kingdom