The Retail/Project Support Assistant Volunteer plays a key role in supporting the smooth running of the community hub and its retail outlet. This includes assisting with day-to-day tasks such as taking orders, helping with deliveries, setting up activities, and maintaining the hub’s facilities. The role also involves supporting clients to access the hub, engage in activities, and connect with the wider community, while promoting events, products, and donations. Volunteers work as part of a team, help maintain a safe and welcoming environment, and follow professional policies and procedures. Through this role, volunteers contribute to the hub’s operations while developing their own skills and knowledge.
In this role, your day-to-day activities would likely include a mix of practical, administrative, and client-focused tasks. Specifically, you would be:
1. Supporting the hub and retail operations:
Helping with the day-to-day running of the hub, including taking and processing orders.
Assisting with deliveries and stocking items in the retail outlet.
Setting up spaces for activities and events.
Maintaining cleanliness and reporting any repairs needed.
2. Supporting clients and community engagement:
Assisting clients who want to use the hub’s facilities.
Signposting clients to additional support services if needed.
Helping clients get involved in activities and encouraging community participation.
3. Promoting the hub and its initiatives:
Advertising products, events, and activities happening in the hub.
Assisting with donations, including collecting and organizing them.
4. Administrative and teamwork responsibilities:
Recording notes or keeping basic records as instructed by staff.
Working as part of a team and liaising with staff about any issues.
Following policies and procedures, including health and safety, safeguarding, and confidentiality.
5. Personal development:
Participating in training and team meetings to improve skills and knowledge.
Being flexible with your hours when needed.
In short, you’d be helping the hub run smoothly, supporting clients, promoting activities, and contributing to a safe and welcoming environment, all while developing your own skills.
Skills
Communication skills – able to talk and listen effectively to clients, volunteers, and staff.
Teamwork – able to work well with others and support team tasks.
Organizational skills – able to help set up activities, handle orders, deliveries, and donations efficiently.
Customer service skills – friendly, approachable, and supportive when interacting with clients and visitors.
Basic administration skills – ability to record notes, help with paperwork, or manage small retail tasks.
Experience
Previous experience in retail, volunteering, or community work is helpful but not always essential.
Experience working with vulnerable people or in a supportive role is an advantage.
Experience in handling donations, stock, or basic office tasks can be beneficial.
Personal Qualities
Empathy and patience – able to support clients who may have different needs.
Reliability and responsibility – able to follow instructions, maintain confidentiality, and ensure safety.
Flexibility – willing to cover different tasks or shifts as needed.
Positive attitude – approachable, enthusiastic, and keen to contribute to the community.
Proactive and observant – able to notice when help is needed or when repairs/cleanliness issues arise.
The Retail/Project Support Assistant Volunteer role takes place at a local community hub and retail outlet, with the exact location provided by the organisation. Volunteer shifts are flexible and may include mornings, afternoons, or occasionally evenings and weekends, depending on the hub’s schedule and events. Volunteers may also be asked to cover additional hours for special activities or to support other team members, allowing for a varied and engaging experience.
Volunteers receive a full training pathway to prepare for the role, including inductions, basic retail and community hub training, safeguarding, health and safety, and how to raise a concern. Ongoing support and guidance are provided by the hub staff and volunteer coordinators, including regular check-ins, team meetings, and opportunities for professional and personal development.
Volunteering as a Retail/Project Support Assistant offers the opportunity to develop new skills in retail, administration, and community support, while gaining valuable experience working with diverse groups of people. Volunteers can enhance their teamwork, communication, and organizational abilities, build confidence, and contribute meaningfully to their local community. The role also provides opportunities for personal and professional development through training, mentoring, and involvement in different hub activities, making it a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
If you have any specific accessibility needs, we’re happy to discuss adjustments to support you in the role. The office is well-connected by public transport, and there is parking available on-site for those travelling by car. We aim to make it easy for everyone to get here and take part.
Volunteers are expected to work within Cornerstone’s policies and procedures, including health and safety, safeguarding, equal opportunities, and confidentiality. The role requires a reliable and flexible approach, as shifts may vary and tasks can change depending on hub activities and client needs. Volunteers are encouraged to participate in team meetings and professional reviews to support ongoing development and ensure effective service delivery. The role is suitable for anyone with a positive attitude who enjoys helping others, being part of a team, and contributing to their local community.
