Volunteer with your local Oxfam shop

Volunteers Needed!

At the heart of Oxfam Ireland Shops, there is a network of dedicated staff and volunteers – all working together to beat poverty. They play a vital role in supporting Oxfam’s work - and now our global response to Covid-19 – while also providing a solution to throwaway fashion by saving items from ending up in landfills across the island of Ireland. They are planet and people protectors.

Chrissi, one of our incredible Managers, reflects on working at Oxfam on Botanic Avenue in Belfast as she gets ready to reopen shop doors after months of closure. We hope it inspires you to volunteer with your local Oxfam shop.

Q: How long have you worked with Oxfam Ireland?
A: Almost three years - I started managing the shop in Lisburn and now run the Oxfam Vintage shop on Botanic Avenue.

Q: What was your motivation for applying for the job?
A: I have an interest in sustainable fashion and love clothes. I only buy second hand clothing and feel that fast fashion is a real issue. I’m motivated by raising money that goes towards helping others.

Q: How did it feel to have to close your shop?
A: When we were told we had to close I felt apprehensive for the charity sector as a whole and concerned for vulnerable people in the community.

Q: What did you miss the most?
A: I’ve missed the craic from customers and volunteers and of course the fun of never knowing what you will get donated.

Q: What are you looking forward to when you reopen your doors?
A: I’m looking forward to getting the shop into order again and seeing how all the volunteers and regular customers have been.

Q: What is the best thing about working in a charity shop?
A: There are so many things that make it a great place to work. I love my job because I get to meet and work with a diverse range of people and see that people really do care about each other. Of course I’m also obsessed with clothes so get to shop whilst working!

Q: What has been your best moment in the shop?
A: We have had lots of great moments but a real highlight was when two Iranian volunteers got their asylum granted after a long wait. For them to finally have freedom to move forward was lovely to see.

Q: How can people help your business bounce back?
A: By donating good quality items to our shops. If you're like me and you did a massive clear out, we will happily take it! In doing so you are preventing goods ending up in landfill. Of course you can also help by shopping in our shops to find that unique bargain!

Q: Is there anything you would like to say to your customers and/or volunteers?
A: We have uncertain times ahead of us but kindness in the community is so important.