Summer Holiday Volunteer Role Description (Ages 16+)
Looking to make a difference over the summer while gaining valuable experience? We are offering flexible, short-term volunteering opportunities across our shops, Donation Centre, e-commerce team and in the Hospice gardens—perfect for students finishing school, college, or who have some spare time over the holidays.
Our volunteers play a vital role in supporting St Leonard’s Hospice, helping raise funds, maintain our welcoming environments, and support our local community.
When am I needed?
- Flexible opportunities available throughout the summer (June–September)
- Morning and Afternoon shifts available Monday – Saturday in shops and Monday – Sunday in our Donation Centre and Clifton moor shop
- Gardening sessions take place on Monday or Thursday mornings
- E-commerce shifts take place Monday to Friday, either morning or afternoon
What will I be doing?
You can choose an area that suits your interests—whether that’s working with people, being behind the scenes, or spending time outdoors.
Shop & Donation Centre activities:
- Sorting, pricing and preparing donated items ready for sale
- Welcoming customers, serving on the till and helping on the shop floor
- Accepting donations and promoting Gift Aid
- Assisting with stock organisation and general shop tasks
Gardening activities:
- Watering, weeding and helping maintain Hospice gardens
- Sweeping paths and keeping outdoor spaces tidy
- Supporting the upkeep of a peaceful environment for patients and visitors
E-commerce activities:
- Research and price donated items, writing accurate and engaging descriptions for eBay listings
- Photograph items clearly and attractively, including any flaws, and upload images using a smartphone
- Carefully pack and prepare a wide range of items for postage, helping ensure purchases arrive in excellent condition
- Work with the eCommerce team to dispatch items, keep postage areas tidy and monitor packaging supplies
What skills and qualities will I need?
- Friendly, positive and willing to get involved
- Reliable and able to work as part of a team
- Willingness to learn new skills (no experience needed)
- Comfortable following guidance from staff and volunteers
- Respectful of confidentiality and professional boundaries
- For gardening roles: an interest in being outdoors and working hands-on
How will I benefit from volunteering?
- Gain valuable experience to support your CV, college or university applications
- Build confidence and develop new skills in teamwork, retail or gardening
- Be part of a friendly and inclusive team
- Make a real difference to your local Hospice and community
- Enjoy a sense of achievement from contributing your time over the summer
Support and Supervision
- You’ll be fully supported by our Retail Team, Facilities Team, Shop Managers or E-commerce manager depending on your role
- The Volunteer Services Team will guide you through your application and answer any questions during your time with us
Training
- You’ll complete a short induction before starting
- Ongoing support will be provided throughout your placement
About the Hospice
St Leonard’s Hospice provides care and support to people living with life-limiting illnesses, and those close to them. Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do, helping us provide compassionate care and vital services across our community.
If you have any questions, contact our Volunteer Services Team:
01904 777765
volunteers@stleonardshospice.org.uk