Becoming a Volunteer

We are always keen to welcome new volunteers and want to hear from anyone with a little spare time who would like to join our enthusiastic and hardworking team.  For more information on volunteering, contact your local shop or e-mail us at volunteer@satradingco.org

Volunteering in Salvation Army Trading Company shops means you will meet lots of people, have fun, learn new skills and most importantly become a much needed and valued member of our team.

Whilst working as a volunteer you will have the chance to develop your communication and numeracy skills, as well as gain valuable experience of working in a team and taking responsibility.  In some cases we can offer formal qualifications such as NVQs in retailing. The important thing to remember is that every volunteer makes a real difference to the work of The Salvation Army.

What would I be expected to do as a volunteer?

There is a lot to do in our shops and working as a volunteer means there is a wide variety of activities to choose from.  If fashion is your passion then sorting clothes might be for you.  However, if retailing is your thing, then helping customers choose what they want or working on the till could be right for you.  We also need volunteers with a flair for design to help arrange shop and window displays.

Will I need any special skills?

You do not need any special skills, as you will receive on-the-job training and support.  However when you apply, please tell the shop manager of any experience you do have as it can often be put to good use.

We especially need help with special interest items, such as antiques, books or music as a good eye can lead to a rare find!

Will volunteering affect my benefits?

Volunteering does not affect the Job Seeker’s Allowance as long as you are still ‘actively seeking and available for work’.

If you receive Incapacity Benefit you may volunteer for as many hours as you wish.

Volunteering does not affect whether or not a person receives Disability Living Allowance.

Whatever the benefit you receive, you should always inform your benefits agency that you are doing voluntary work.

How much time do I need to be a volunteer?

Volunteering need not interfere with your other commitments.  Most of our shops ask for a regular commitment of only a few hours per week.

All our shops are open on Saturdays but closed on Sundays and bank holidays (varies in Scotland)

We are also more than happy for volunteers to join us on a full time basis. 

If you volunteer with us for seven hours a week or more, we will reimburse your travel costs so you won’t be left out of pocket.