Shop floor volunteer
Help keep the shop running by welcoming customers, working on the tills, organising displays and preparing donated items for sale.
Retail volunteering
Make a difference in our shops
Volunteering in our charity shops helps raise vital funds for local children and their families. Whether you can spare a few hours a week or multiple days, become part of our friendly team today.
- Make a real difference to Acorns and the families we support.
- Choose from a variety of opportunities including shop floor volunteers, book shop assistants, driver's mate and student placements.
- Give the time you can and become part of a welcoming team making every donation count.
More than volunteering
Why volunteer in retail?
From gaining experience to building confidence, there are many reasons to volunteer in retail. Whether you're looking to develop new skills, meet new people or be part of a friendly team, volunteering in one of our shops is a rewarding way to support local children and families.
- Build confidence and experience Gain valuable retail experience, develop practical skills and build your confidence.
- Be part of a welcoming team Meet new people, make friends and enjoy being part of a busy, supportive environment where everyone works together.
- Make a difference Volunteers play an important part in daily shop life, from sorting donations and preparing stock for sale, to serving customers.
Find your role
Retail roles
There are lots of ways to get involved as a Retail volunteer at Acorns. Whether you're sorting donations, preparing stock for sale, working on the tills, helping customers or sharing your own skills and experience, every role helps our shops support local children and their families.
Book shop assistant
Support our specialist superstore book shop, Chapter and Verse. You'll help sort, organise and present books so customers can easily find their next great read.
Furniture support
Help prepare, move and display donated furniture in our superstores, creating an inviting shopping experience for customers.
Who can join?
Who can volunteer?
Retail volunteering is open to a wide range of people. If you're aged 18 or over, enjoy meeting people and like being part of a team, we'd love to hear from you.
- No experience needed Full training and support are provided, so you don't need previous retail or customer service experience to get started.
- Flexible to fit around you Whether you can spare a couple of hours each week or a couple of days, we'll work with you to find a volunteering pattern that suits your availability.
- Placements available We welcome Duke of Edinburgh participants and work experience placements for young people aged 14 to 17 who are looking to learn new skills and be part of a supportive team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Retail volunteering FAQs
Thinking about volunteering in one of our shops? Here are answers to some of the questions we're asked most often. If you can't find what you're looking for, please contact our Volunteer team at volunteer@acorns.org.uk.
Do I need retail experience?
No. You don't need any retail experience to volunteer in our shops. Just bring a friendly, willing-to-learn attitude and we'll provide the support you need to get started.
What will I be doing?
Tasks vary depending on the role. General shop volunteers help with sorting donations, preparing stock, operating the tills and supporting customers. Book Shop Assistants organise books, sort donations and help customers find their next read. Furniture Support volunteers help sort, move and unload donated furniture.
How much time do I need to commit?
We're flexible! Our shops are open either six or seven days a week. Whether you can volunteer a few days or just a few hours a week, we'll work with you to find a schedule that suits you. It would be great if you could support at least three hours a week.
Will I receive training and support?
Yes. Every volunteer receives training and ongoing support to help them feel confident and enjoy their role.
What skills will I gain?
You'll gain a range of valuable skills including confidence, customer service, teamwork, communication and practical retail experience. Volunteering is also a great way to build your CV while making a positive difference.
How do I apply?
Simply search for your local or preferred Acorns shop location on our vacancy page and complete the volunteer application form attached to the opportunity you're interested in.
What happens after I apply?
Once you've submitted your application, a member of the shop team will review your information and contact you if you meet the requirements for the role.
Can I choose which Acorns shop I volunteer in?
Yes. Simply search for your preferred Acorns shop location, or choose the one closest to you, and apply for the volunteer role at that specific shop. See our vacancy page for full available roles.