Oxfam is calling for more volunteers for the Christmas rush

The shop on Skinnergate is asking for volunteers to donate their time this holiday season as the shop expects a busy Christmas because of the increased interest in second-hand shopping.

With less than 50 days until Christmas, the store is preparing for heightened activity, following an Oxfam survey last year indicating that a third of shoppers planned to purchase pre-loved gifts for the holidays. 

Residents are encouraged to give any amount of time they can spare, whether it's a few hours or a regular commitment, to help with a range of tasks in the shop. 

Opportunities for volunteers include working at the till, arranging window displays, sorting donations, and engaging with customers, all contributing to Oxfam's efforts to raise essential funds for poverty and inequality initiatives around the world.

The Darlington team getting into the Christmas spirit (Image: Oxfam) Rachel Parry, Oxfam Shop Manager, said: “Christmas is one of the busiest and most wonderful times of the year at our shop in Darlington, and volunteers are absolutely essential to helping everything run over the festive season.

"Whatever time you have to spare, we would love to welcome more volunteers into our Oxfam shop this Christmas and into the New Year.

"It’s the perfect way to gain new skills, take on a new challenge, and have fun – as well as helping make a difference and raise life-saving money at a time when it’s most needed.”

Volunteer Marketing Manager Zara Canfield said: “Our volunteers’ efforts over the festive season are so important for our Oxfam shops.

"They are not only there to help shoppers with everything they need to make their Christmas perfect, but they are also helping us to raise vital funds to tackle poverty and inequality across the world.

"In the lead-up to our busiest time of year, we would love to encourage people to consider giving the gift of a little time this Christmas to help make a difference with Oxfam.”

Those interested in volunteering can find more information and apply at Oxfam Volunteers.