Oxfam is calling for residents of Frome to make the most of their spare time by volunteering to Give A Shift at Oxfam Frome in 2018.
Research has shown that volunteering leads to an enhanced social life, less loneliness, a better job, and – for one in 10 – a partner*. Around eight in 10 people said volunteering improved their social circle – with people on average gaining six new friends.
All volunteers are given on-the-job training and the chance to learn new skills, develop existing talents and take on responsibility. Each volunteer is valued and appreciated. The range of work includes pricing donations, sorting stock, updating the shop’s social media channels. The options are endless and some, like being a volunteer recruiter, do not involve coming into the shop at all.
Just one shift a week will help raise crucial funds for Oxfam’s work, coming to the aid of people living in poverty across the globe. 58% of Oxfam’s current volunteers give 4 hours a week or less and shifts can be flexible to suit you.
Shop manager, Sue Merrill said, “This shop could not exist without our team of kind, talented and dedicated volunteers. Being such a busy shop, we need to recruit more. Each and every new volunteer will be greeted by friendly faces and a warm welcome. So whether you want to improve your CV, explore your interests, do your bit to fight poverty, contribute to the local community or just meet a wonderful bunch of people, make giving a shift here your New Year’s Resolution!”
Daniel O’Driscoll, Oxfam head of volunteering said, “Sparing just a small amount of your free time makes such a big difference to people’s lives, because our shops raise vital money for our work fighting poverty across the world. But more than that, volunteering helps you make new friends and boosts job prospects. It’s clear volunteering makes people happier, more confident and positive about the future.”
To find out more about volunteering in the shop, just pop in for a chat with one of the team or sign up online at www.oxfam. org.uk/igiveashift
For further details contact: Sue or Suzanne on 01373 464787.
*Oxfam volunteering survey
