While volunteers are predominately working in the Trading Division, Oxfam is working hard to develop opportunities throughout the organisation - ensuring that all volunteers are appropriately managed and are offered opportunities that suit their needs. The culture of volunteering has largely been developed in the shops, but by promoting the fantastic contribution made by volunteers, there is increasing demand from different parts of the organisation, such as the regional offices, campaigns and headquarters offices. The only exception is working overseas. Though much of Oxfam's work is overseas with local project partners, volunteers are not normally sent abroad. Voluntary participation by local communities is encouraged instead.
Volunteers play a central role in achieving the aims of the organisation.
The gift of time is a valuable contribution and a strong tie which increases Oxfam's legitimacy and credibility. Their commitment to making a difference and using their skills to help others forms the public face of Oxfam and the foundation of the success of the charity. Its headquarters organisation, in particular, needs a range of skills, and contributions extending from young people on work experience from college or university through to seasoned professionals seconded by their employers. But while the aim is to enable producer organisations, operating on fair employment principles, to gain access to UK markets, the condition of the goods must be comparable with any other High Street outlet. All the usual rules of health and safety apply and customers will be expecting the same quality standards as they would get from one of the big multiple stores.