Customer Service Volunteer – Charity shops

Our charity shops are a vital source of income for Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter, helping to fund the care, rehabilitation and rehoming of hundreds of dogs and cats every year. Every item sold, every donation accepted and every positive interaction with a customer directly contributes to the welfare of the animals in our care. As a charity shop volunteer, you are often the first point of contact for members of the public visiting our shops, making you one of our most visible ambassadors. The impression you make, the conversations you have and the enthusiasm you bring for our cause can turn a casual shopper into a lifelong supporter. Your contribution has a real and direct impact on our ability to care for animals in need.

What you will be doing:

This is a varied, customer-facing role based in one of our two charity shops. You will be an important part of a small, close-knit team and no two sessions are exactly the same.

• Welcoming every customer warmly and providing a friendly, helpful and professional level of customer service throughout their visit
• Operating the till and handling cash and card transactions accurately and confidently
• Accepting and sorting incoming donations, assessing items for suitability and quality
• Replenishing and merchandising stock on the shop floor to keep displays attractive, well-stocked and organised
• Maintaining a clean, tidy and safe shop environment at all times, reporting any health and safety concerns to the shop manager promptly
• Organising and maintaining the stockroom to ensure donated items are stored safely and accessibly
• Confidently and enthusiastically promoting the work of Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter to customers, helping to build public awareness and support for our mission
• Assisting at shelter fundraising events when able to do so

Our charity shops are open Monday to Saturday, 9.30am–4.30pm.

Volunteer sessions are available during these hours for a 4-hour period, either 9.30am–1.30pm or 12.30pm–4.30pm, on a set day each week.

On occasion, we may ask if you are able to help at shelter fundraising events outside of these hours.

Skills

• A warm, friendly and confident manner with members of the public - excellent customer service is at the heart of this role
• Previous customer service or retail experience is beneficial, though not essential
• A well-presented and professional appearance in line with the shop's standards
• A genuine enthusiasm for the work of Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter and a willingness to talk about our mission with customers and visitors
• Confidence handling cash and operating a till - training will be provided
• The ability to work flexibly and adapt to varying tasks and priorities throughout your session
• Strong team working skills and the ability to communicate well with shop staff and fellow volunteers
• Reliability and punctuality - the shop team depend on volunteers turning up as scheduled
• Enthusiasm, commitment and a genuine love of animals!