If you’re looking for a rewarding part-time retail job in the United Kingdom, Cancer Research UK is currently recruiting a Retail Store Assistant for its charity shop in Oakham, Rutland. This permanent opportunity is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with people, delivering excellent customer service, and contributing to a meaningful cause.
By joining one of the UK’s leading cancer charities, you’ll play an important role in raising funds that support life-saving cancer research while gaining valuable retail experience in a friendly and supportive environment.
Job Overview
- Job Title: Retail Store Assistant (Internal Title: Shop Assistant)
- Company: Cancer Research UK
- Location: Oakham, Rutland, United Kingdom
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Working Hours: Part-Time (15 hours per week)
- Salary: £12.71 per hour
- Department: Trading
- Reports To: Shop Manager
- Application Deadline: 28 June 2026 (Vacancy may close earlier if sufficient applications are received.)
About Cancer Research UK
Cancer Research UK is the world’s largest independent cancer research charity dedicated to saving lives through research, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Every purchase made in its charity shops helps fund groundbreaking research aimed at beating cancer.
Working with Cancer Research UK means becoming part of a passionate team that is making a real difference in communities across the UK.
About the Role
As a Retail Store Assistant, you’ll be one of the first people customers meet when visiting the charity shop. You’ll help create a welcoming shopping experience while supporting the store in reaching its sales and fundraising targets.
This role offers a lively retail environment where every day brings something different—from discovering unique donated items to engaging with customers and supporting community fundraising initiatives.
Whether you’re assisting shoppers, organising stock, or helping prepare fundraising events, your contribution will directly support Cancer Research UK’s mission.
Key Responsibilities
Your responsibilities will include:
- Delivering excellent customer and supporter service.
- Assisting customers with purchases and enquiries.
- Supporting the shop team in achieving sales and fundraising targets.
- Maintaining high standards of visual merchandising and store presentation.
- Sorting, pricing, and displaying donated goods.
- Keeping the shop clean, safe, and organised.
- Following safeguarding, health, and safety procedures.
- Building positive relationships within the local community.
- Supporting fundraising campaigns and special events.
- Working collaboratively with volunteers and colleagues.
Required Skills and Experience
To succeed in this position, you should have:
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Previous experience working in a busy customer-facing environment.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- The ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Good organisational and time-management skills.
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Preferred Qualifications
Although not essential, the following will be an advantage:
- Previous retail experience.
- Interest in fashion, pre-loved goods, or charity retail.
- Experience working towards sales or fundraising targets.
Benefits
Cancer Research UK offers an excellent range of employee benefits, including:
- Competitive hourly pay of £12.71.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Flexible annual leave.
- Employee discounts on travel, technology, shopping, and gym memberships.
- Comprehensive training and career development opportunities.
- Supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
- Opportunity to contribute to world-leading cancer research.
- Access to wellbeing support and employee assistance programmes.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom.
- Be able to successfully complete a Basic DBS check.
- Be available to work flexible shifts as part of the shop rota.
Please note: Cancer Research UK does not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
Why Work for Cancer Research UK?
Working at Cancer Research UK is more than just a retail job. Every sale made in the charity shop helps fund vital research that improves cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
You’ll have the opportunity to:
- Make a meaningful impact every day.
- Gain valuable retail and customer service experience.
- Develop transferable workplace skills.
- Build relationships within your local community.
- Work with a passionate and supportive team.
Application Process
Cancer Research UK operates an anonymised recruitment process to promote fairness and equality.
Applicants are required to complete the online application form, including their employment history. CVs will only be reviewed after candidates have been shortlisted for interview.
Early applications are encouraged, as the vacancy may close before the advertised deadline if enough suitable applications are received.
Important Information
- Job Type: Permanent
- Hours: 15 hours per week
- Salary: £12.71 per hour
- Location: Oakham, Rutland
- Closing Date: 28 June 2026
- Visa Sponsorship: Not Available
- DBS Check: Required
- Minimum Age: 18 years
How to Apply
If you’re passionate about customer service and want to support one of the UK’s leading cancer charities, this could be the perfect opportunity.
Submit your online application before the closing date to be considered for this exciting part-time position.