JOIN OUR TEAM AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE

In the UK we are living in desperate and difficult days with recession, rising unemployment, benefit changes, major increases in food prices, and rising utility bills. The Covid-19 pandemic of 2020/2021 further exacerbated the situation and has catapulted us into a possible recession that the UK (and indeed the world) has not experienced or seen the depth of in modern times.

 
Whilst organisations like Somebody Cares are already contributing on a daily basis an enormous amount of charitable support to Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, and positively impacting the lives of those who would otherwise be living on the streets, desperately seeking their next hot meal, or scrambling for clothes and a warm bed for their families, this need is only going to increase exponentially over the next few years.

 
Quite simply, Somebody Cares needs to continue to grow in the support it provides, with even more help from the local communities, supporters, corporate sponsors, charitable foundations, Scottish and Westminster government and both of our hard-working local councils.
We now have a very dynamic management team in place, from the Board of Trustees to the Operation Leads and Management Support Team, who strive to ensure the organisation is run effectively and efficiently in order to support all our employees, volunteers, vulnerable clients and customers.

We also have an excellent team of drivers, sales assistants, foodbank assistants and donations assistants (both employees and volunteers) who continually work together to ensure that Somebody Cares can deliver the best service to the people that need our support, and also the best shopping experience to those who visit our megastore, monthly warehouse sales or (soon to be) online shop.
It is for these reasons that any recruitment we do looks for people who have the right attitude and approach - charitable minded, hard-working team players who are willing to go the extra mile to help us achieve our aims of supporting all those who need our help in Aberdeen and the shire. Joining our team needs to be a two-way process – we want everyone who gives us hours of their time to be able to work to the very best of their ability (and beyond) in an environment that they enjoy turning up to each day, at the same time as feeling that they have achieved their sense of social responsibility and made a real difference to other people’s lives. 

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CURRENT VACANCIES

JOB DESCRIPTION – SHOP MANAGER

Position: Shop Manager Employability Retail
Hours: 18 hours per week (Thursday – Saturday, 10-4)

Compensation: £13 per hour

Contract: 6-month fixed term with potential for renewal

Location: Aberdeen

MAIN PURPOSE
Somebody Cares Scotland is launching an exciting new retail initiative designed to support young people aged 16-25 in the Aberdeen community through meaningful work experience in retail. This innovative shop will operate with seasonal themes - Christmas (September-December), Wedding (January-April), and Vintage (May-August) - creating diverse learning opportunities throughout the year.

The Shop Manager will be responsible for creating a supportive, educational environment where young volunteers can develop essential workplace skills, build confidence, and gain valuable retail experience to support their journey into permanent employment. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference in young people's lives while managing an innovative retail concept.

The successful candidate will work closely with project partners, local schools and the wider Somebody Cares Scotland team to ensure that each young person receives tailored support and development opportunities that match their individual needs and career aspirations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT & MENTORING

Provide guidance, support and mentoring to young volunteers aged 16-25
Create individual development plans for each volunteer, identifying their strengths and areas for growth
Deliver informal training in retail skills, customer service, teamwork, and workplace behaviours
Work sensitively with young people who may have additional needs or face barriers to employment
Maintain detailed records of volunteer progress and achievements
Liaise with external agencies and support services as appropriate

VOLUNTEER COORDINATION

Recruit young volunteers through partnerships with local schools, colleges, and youth organisations
Design and implement a structured induction programme for new volunteers
Create flexible rotas that accommodate volunteers' education and personal commitments
Foster an inclusive, supportive team environment that encourages learning and personal growth
Recognise and celebrate volunteer achievements and milestones

RETAIL OPERATIONS

Manage day-to-day shop operations across our three seasonal themes
Ensure attractive, professional merchandise displays that reflect seasonal themes
Handle stock management, pricing, and inventory control
Process sales transactions and maintain accurate financial records
Provide excellent customer service and handle customer enquiries professionally
Maintain shop cleanliness, organisation, and visual appeal

HEALTH & SAFETY

Ensure all volunteers understand and follow health and safety procedures
Create and maintain a safe working environment for young people
Conduct risk assessments and implement appropriate safety measures
Report any incidents or concerns promptly to project coordinators
Ensure compliance with safeguarding policies for working with young people

ADMINISTRATION & REPORTING

Maintain volunteer attendance and progress records
Prepare regular reports on volunteer development and shop performance
Coordinate with project partners and funding bodies as required
Support volunteers with reference requests and employment applications
Manage basic financial administration and banking procedures

OPERATIONAL DUTIES

1. Shop Management: Open and close shop during agreed hours (Thursday-Saturday), ensuring security and proper procedures
2. Seasonal Transitions: Lead the transformation of shop themes and displays throughout the year
3. Stock Management: Source, sort, price, and display donated stock appropriate to seasonal themes
4. Customer Relations: Deliver excellent customer service and handle complaints professionally
5. Team Leadership: Create daily tasks and learning opportunities for volunteers
6. Community Engagement: Promote the shop and initiative within the local community
7. Partnership Working: Maintain relationships with local businesses, schools, and support agencies

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

Experience & Skills

Experience working with young people - essential (formal or informal settings)
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to motivate, inspire, and support young people from diverse backgrounds
Basic administration and organisational skills
Reliability, punctuality, and professional approach
Willingness to apply existing skills in a retail environment
Willing to be PVG’ed

Personal Qualities

Patient, encouraging, and supportive approach
Adaptability and creativity in problem-solving
Enthusiasm for youth development and community support
Professional boundaries while maintaining approachable manner
Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion

DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS

Previous retail or customer service experience
Experience working with young people with additional needs
Understanding of barriers facing young people in employment
Knowledge of local youth services and support networks
Basic understanding of safeguarding principles
Qualification in youth work, education, or related field

WORKING CONDITIONS

Hours: Thursday to Saturday, 18 hours total per week

Schedule: Flexible within shop opening hours to accommodate volunteer availability

Contract: Initial 6-month fixed term with strong potential for renewal based on performance and funding

Annual Leave: Pro-rata entitlement

Training: Full induction provided plus ongoing professional development opportunities

WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS

This is more than just a retail management position - you'll be directly contributing to young people's futures, helping them build confidence, develop workplace skills, and take their next steps toward meaningful employment. You'll see the impact of your work every day as volunteers grow, learn, and move forward in their careers.

Join us in creating something special - a retail space that serves the community while transforming young lives.

To Apply: Please submit your CV and a cover letter to hr@somebodycaresscotland.org explaining why you're passionate about supporting young people and how your skills would contribute to this innovative initiative.

Closing date Sept 1st , Interviews September 4th & 5th, Likely start date Sept 11th

Job Title: Furniture Delivery Driver (Full-Time)
Location: Altens
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Hours: 0830 – 1630

About Us

Somebody Cares are a well-established charity dedicated to supporting local individuals and families in need through the provision of essential household items, food and clothing.  Our furniture delivery service is central to our mission, helping to turn houses into homes and reduce waste through re-use and recycling.

The Role

We are looking for a reliable, physically fit, and professional individual to join our delivery team. You will collect and deliver donated furniture and household goods, interact with donors and beneficiaries, and ensure safe handling and transportation of items. You will collect and deliver donated furniture and household goods, interact with donors and beneficiaries, and ensure safe handling and transportation of items.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver and collect furniture and household items across the local area
• Load and unload goods with care and efficiency
• Complete paperwork and maintain accurate records
• Carry out basic vehicle checks and report issues
• Provide excellent customer service, representing the charity with professionalism and compassion

What We’re Looking For

• Full UK driving licence (clean preferred)
• Candidates aged 25 or over to meet insurance requirements
• Experience driving vans or in a delivery/removal role desirable
• Good level of physical fitness (this is a physically demanding role)
• Friendly, respectful, and team-oriented attitude
• Able to work flexibly and independently when required

Personal Development & Wellbeing

• Develop purpose, fulfilment and satisfaction from helping others
• Enjoy a sense of community, connection and belonging
• High job satisfaction
• Develop skills in resilience and adaptability

What We Offer

• A rewarding role where your work directly benefits people in need
• Supportive, mission-driven team culture
• Opportunities for training and personal development
• Competitive salary
• Company Pension
• 28 Days Holiday (including Bank Holidays)
• Blue Light Discount
• Health Assured Support Service – Our Health Assured program offers a wide range of support to help you manage your mental health and overall, all wellbeing.  Services include:

• Counselling Services
• Financial Wellbeing
• Medical Information
• Legal Information
• Childcare Support
• 24 Hour Confidential Helpline

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your suitability for the role via email hr@somebodycaresscotland.org  quoting Full Time Driver

Join us and be part of something meaningful. Every delivery makes a difference.

Job Title: Bank Furniture Delivery Driver (Ad Hoc / Casual)
Location: Altens
Job Type: Casual / As-Needed / Bank Staff
Hours: Flexible, ad hoc shifts available (covering holidays, busy periods, staff absence)

About Us

Somebody Cares are a well-established charity dedicated to supporting local individuals and families in need through the provision of essential household items, food and clothing.  Our furniture delivery service is central to our mission, helping to turn houses into homes and reduce waste through re-use and recycling.

The Role

We’re looking for flexible, reliable Bank Furniture Delivery Drivers to support our team during busy times, staff holidays, or periods of increased demand.

This role is ideal for students, shift workers, semi-retired individuals, or anyone looking to earn some extra income while making a positive impact in the community. You will collect and deliver donated furniture and household goods, interact with donors and beneficiaries, and ensure safe handling and transportation of items.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver and collect furniture and household items across the local area
• Load and unload goods with care and efficiency
• Complete paperwork and maintain accurate records
• Carry out basic vehicle checks and report issues
• Provide excellent customer service, representing the charity with professionalism and compassion

What We’re Looking For

• Full UK driving licence (clean preferred)
• Candidates aged 25 or over to meet insurance requirements
• Experience driving vans or in a delivery/removal role desirable
• Good level of physical fitness (this is a physically demanding role)
• Friendly, respectful, and team-oriented attitude
• Able to work flexibly and independently when required

Personal Development & Wellbeing

• Develop purpose, fulfilment and satisfaction from helping others
• Enjoy a sense of community, connection and belonging
• High job satisfaction
• Develop skills in resilience and adaptability

Why Join Us?

• Flexible hours – work around your schedule
• Paid casual work
• Stay active – ideal for people who like physical work
• Make a difference – support people in need in your local area

What We Offer

• A rewarding role where your work directly benefits people in need
• Supportive, mission-driven team culture
• Opportunities for training and personal development
• Competitive salary
• Company Pension
• 28 Days Holiday (including Bank Holidays)
• Blue Light Discount
• Health Assured Support Service – Our Health Assured program offers a wide range of support to help you manage your mental health and overall, all wellbeing.  Services include:

• Counselling Services
• Financial Wellbeing
• Medical Information
• Legal Information
• Childcare Support
• 24 Hour Confidential Helpline

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your suitability for the role via email hr@somebodycaresscotland.org quoting Bank Driver

Make a difference on your own terms. Join our team as a Bank Driver today.

POSITION: Fundraiser

Based At : Somebody Cares House, Wellington Circle, Altens, Aberdeen, AB12 3JG

Responsible To: Chief Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer

Hours of Work: Full-time position being 08:30am-16.30pm Monday to Friday

OVERVIEW :

Somebody Cares Scotland is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) committed to improving the welfare of those in need within Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. It accepts donations of furnishings, household items, clothes, and food in great quantities and either donates them free of charge to the charity clients or sells them to customers of the retail outlets, using the proceeds to cover the running costs of the charity.

Somebody Cares is keen to work with great people from a wide variety of backgrounds. We are a values-based charity and welcome applications from all sectors and from people with a passion for our existing work and our future potential. Equality, diversity, and inclusion is as important in our employees and governance as it is in our work.  
This is a truly exciting time to join Somebody Cares, as we grow in ambition, and this role represents a rare opportunity to set the fundraising direction of one of Scotland’s largest independent charities. Take the leap and be a key player in the growth and reputation of our charity that's all about making a difference!

The Fundraiser reports jointly to the Chief Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer and will maximise fundraising opportunities and income generation by design, development and implementation of our new funding policy. Including devising and implementing a successful programme of fundraising from all sectors including corporate, trust funds, government funding, national lottery etc. to an agreed annual target, which will include securing funding applications, corporate sponsorship and general donations.

You will have proven experience as a Fundraiser, be highly strategic, a visionary who thinks boldly and is happy to promote new ideas and thinking. You will bring energy, strong values, a team ethic and excellent communication skills. This is a truly exciting time to join Somebody Cares, as we grow in ambition, and this role represents a rare opportunity to set the funding direction of one of Scotland’s largest independent charities.

You’ll be passionate and experienced in developing policy that drives social change through grant fundraising. You will bring a strong understanding of how to gather, synthesise and reflect a diversity of perspectives and needs to develop policy that is evidence based and ambitious in its objectives. You will be curious, a proactive learner, and have a sharp eye for detail. Like the rest of the team, you’ll be motivated to adopt an equitable approach to everything you do.

The Fundraiser is a full-time position being 08:30am-16.30pm Monday to Friday, although there is flexibility as it is understood that evening and weekend work may be required as part of the role. You will be based at Somebody Cares House, Wellington Circle, Altens, Aberdeen, AB12 3JG however, you may be expected to travel or work at other locations as required.

CVs should be submitted to hr@somebodycaresscotland.org

Specific Operational Duties :

The areas of responsibility for the Fundraiser are detailed below. These duties are not exhaustive and may be amended from time-to-time to suit the requirements of our charity.

• Develop and manage the Somebody Cares strategy for raising money from corporate sector, trust funds, government funding, national lottery etc. as an integral part of the charity’s overall fundraising programme
• Forge long-term mutually beneficial relationships with corporate supporters and raise funds towards the ongoing work of Somebody Cares
• Organise events or other activities that aim to generate donations or more generally increase awareness of Somebody Cares
• In conjunction with our Social Media & Marketing Co-ordinator develop and manage web-based fundraising and online auctions
• Develop and maintain a portfolio of companies from Scotland’s funding sector and take responsibility for delivering and developing plans for securing new income from businesses by identifying growth areas and opportunities
• Develop a long-term strategy within the corporate sector, trust funds, government funding, national lottery etc. paying particular attention to charity of the year partnerships, corporate donations and sponsorship opportunities
• Monitor CSR/corporate responsibility issues in the media and keep up to date with professional fundraising associations and media regarding fundraising tools and skills development
• Develop professional proposals and undertake presentations at senior level meetings
• Develop and write funding proposals, corporate applications and reports
• Register Somebody Cares as a beneficiary of third-party events e.g. kilt walk, marathons, Garioch runs, Baker Hughes events etc. and promote these events to the public
• Use LinkedIn, Chamber of Commerce and other charities social media platforms to keep abreast of what sponsorship is being awarded and to whom
• Establish which companies partake in matched giving and implement for Somebody Cares
• Develop Just Giving campaigns and promote to raise funds
• Promote Somebody Cares by utilising all social media platforms
• Establish and promote quarterly Somebody Cares newsletters
• Continue to manage and encourage supporters to maintain regular donations and inspire new support through continual relationship development
• Track, analyse and report on fundraising results in the corporate field and measure, manage and report performance using agreed performance measures
• Actively seek sponsorship to support Somebody Cares events, working closely with the senior management team
• Continue to raise the profile of Somebody Cares by networking at appropriate events and secure new introductions
• Develop a team of fundraisers to assist organise local fundraising events e.g. afternoon tea etc. and promote these events to the public

Required Skills :

• 2-3 years proven experience as a Fundraiser
• Management and administration skills – the ability to plan, prepare and track strategy to achieve fundraising goals
• Financial awareness – work closely with management team and accountants to understand and achieve financial fundraising goals
• Personal Presentation – as an Ambassador for Somebody Cares this role requires a smart professional appearance and a positive “can-do” attitude
• Must be a creative, innovative individual with good communication skills and an ability to deliver ideas
• Ability to work as a team member capable of following guidelines and deadlines whilst also being self-motivated
• Be prepared, and have willingness, to undertake other tasks and learn new skills as required
• Must have a good demeanour with donors and customers, and always acting with the best interest of the charity at heart  
• A driving licence is preferred but not essential