Guest Blog by Catrin Hughes Volunteer Centre Sefton
We’re approaching Second Hand September, the month dedicated to rethinking our shopping habits, embracing sustainability, and giving pre-loved items a new life.
Here in Southport, charity shops play a huge role in that movement – reducing waste, supporting good causes, and providing affordable finds for everyone.
But behind the scenes, these shops depend on the dedication of local volunteers.
Volunteering in a charity shop is a simple yet powerful way to give back: whether it’s sorting donations, serving customers, or creating eye-catching displays, every hour you give helps the community thrive.
If you’d like to get involved, Volunteer Centre Sefton can help connect you with local charity shops in need of support this September and beyond. It’s the perfect opportunity to do good, meet new people, and be part of Southport’s growing spirit of community.
Oxfam started the concept of Second Hand September and they are looking for volunteers for their Southport shop on London Street. They are seeking volunteers to give 4–8 hours a week, with flexible opportunities to suit different skills and lifestyles. Roles range from shop and bookshop volunteering to social media, admin, or online support, with full training provided. Whatever your availability, Oxfam welcomes new team members to gain experience, meet people, and make a real difference while fitting volunteering around existing commitments.
Located on Shakespeare Street the Salvation Army charity shop is looking for volunteers to help in the shop and as drivers to pick up stock. The team welcomes caring, empathetic people who want to give back and make a positive difference. In return, places like the Salvation Army can help improve your self esteem offer references for future employment and all the tea and coffee you can drink while you’re there, giving your time.
Volunteering in a charity shop is not just about helping on the shop floor. The British Heart Foundation Furniture shop near Lord Street are looking for volunteers to help with a variety of roles including online sales, visual merchandiser, homeware volunteers, warehouse, drivers and more. This charity also offers training and take on volunteers age 16 and above.
Hospice Africa charity shop on Heathfield Road is seeking volunteers to help support its work, with flexible morning (10am–1pm) and afternoon (1pm–4pm) sessions available Monday to Saturday. Even one shift a week makes a difference. All funds raised go to Hospice Africa, founded in Liverpool 29 years ago, which has provided palliative care to over 34,000 patients and trained 10,000 professionals across 37 African countries.
For more information on volunteering in Sefton go to our website volunteeringsefton.org.uk
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