And we’re back – Oxfam Ireland launch volunteer appeal ahead of Northern Ireland shops reopening

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This Friday, 30th April, Oxfam shops across Northern Ireland will reopen for business (and donations!) but the top priority for the organisation is new volunteers to lend a hand in their network of shops across Northern Ireland.  

Volunteers play a vital role in Oxfam’s work globally, while also providing a solution to throwaway fashion by saving items from ending up in landfills here at home. By giving a little of their time and creativity, each one makes a huge difference in support of some of the most at-risk communities in the world, while helping our planet along the way.

Trevor Anderson, Director of Trading with Oxfam Ireland, said: "As our shop teams swing back into action in preparation for their long-awaited reopening, we have launched an appeal across Northern Ireland for volunteers to join our teams. 

“I would encourage anyone interested in lending some time to make an application through our online portal - people can give as little or as much time as they like, and we provide full training. Oxfam shops are a hive of activity with plenty of opportunities to meet new people, learn new skills, and of course, have lots of fun.” 

At the end of December, Oxfam shops in Northern Ireland, along with many other local businesses closed their doors for the third time since the pandemic was declared – to their protect staff, volunteers, donors and customers and play their part in Northern Ireland’s response to Covid-19.

Anderson continued: “The loss of income during this period dealt a blow as the income our shops generate is central to supporting Oxfam's global work to beat poverty and fight inequality. However, we have amazing supporters who have helped us bounce back after each lockdown by shopping and donating to their local Oxfam shop, and we expect this time to be no different. 

“Our shop Managers are in store from Friday, 23 April, and will be accepting donations from members of the public.  We would also ask people to work with us as we reopen, to ensure everyone has a safe and positive experience when visiting our shops.

"We're really looking forward to seeing all of our staff and volunteers in store again, doing what they do best, and we're so excited to welcome our customers and donors back.

"It is because of the commitment and enthusiasm of our staff, volunteers, and supporters that Oxfam can change lives and work toward building a fairer and more sustainable world for everyone.”

Apply to volunteer with your local Oxfam shop here: https://www.oxfamireland.org/getinvolved/volunteer/apply

Find your nearest Oxfam Ireland shop here: https://www.oxfamireland.org/shop/oxfam-shops

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Contact

Caroline Reid | +353 87 912 3165 | caroline.reid@oxfam.org
 

Notes to the Editor

Safety measures Oxfam Ireland Shops will be taking:

• All shops have a suite of PPE: sneeze screens in front of the tills, social distancing measures and messaging throughout the shop and a sanitation station at the entrance. 
• Staff and volunteers will wear masks and they will have an infrared thermometer in each shop to ensure regular check-ups - as well plenty of handwashing - throughout the day. 
• We do expect a surge in donations and have put guidelines and processes in place to manage this eventuality.  
• As part of the overall ‘Covid Compliant Reopening Plan’ which focuses on the Health & Safety of our Staff, Volunteers, Customers and Donors we will be following the up to date government guidelines regarding the quarantining of donations 
• All shops have had a risk assessment carried out and all staff and volunteers will be taken through Covid-19 Compliant Health & Safety training before they start their shift.