Special Interest Volunteer – Research & Valuation

Support Pilgrims Hospices in raising vital funds by applying your knowledge and enthusiasm for a specialist area—such as antiques, rare coins, militaria, fine art, ceramics/pottery, vintage toys, jewellery/watches, collectible books, retro gaming, media, or vintage fashion—to help identify, value, and sell donated items through the most suitable online platforms. This role is ideal for collectors, hobbyists, or anyone with a strong interest in a particular category of collectibles who wants to put their expertise to good use.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Applying your knowledge, conduct in depth research to identify and value items accurately.

Use your knowledge to highlight key features, historical significance, or rarity.

Assist in preparing items for photography (cleaning/inspecting, as needed).

Collaborate with the listings team to ensure product descriptions are accurate, engaging, and use key words and specifics.

Help identify the most suitable platform for sale.

Experience, Skills and Attributes

Specialist knowledge or a strong interest in one or more collectible categories (e.g. antiques, coins, militaria, ceramics, art, jewellery, vintage toys, books, gaming etc).

Research skills and the ability to identify, verify, and value items using online resources, guides, or personal knowledge.

A good eye for detail to spot features, hallmarks, or characteristics that add value.

Ability to write clear, accurate, and engaging descriptions to support online listings.

Willingness to inspect and clean items to prepare them for photography and sale.

Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.

Reliability and a commitment to attend on a regular basis.

Basic computer/IT skills are preferred; however, full training will be provided, including how to use our e-commerce platform, Suredone.

Training Requirements

Comprehensive induction and training, including hands-on experience with our e-commerce platform, Suredone.

Health and Safety training provided.

Other training, as required, to support the role.

Our Responsibilities to You

Make sure your volunteering environment is safe and that you’re covered by appropriate insurance.

Provide you with the necessary training, support, and guidance to help you succeed in your volunteer role.

Address any concerns or difficulties you may have quickly, fairly, and with care.

Value your contributions and treat you with respect, always considering your individual needs, preferences, and skills.

Keep you informed about any changes that may affect your volunteering, and communicate with you respectfully, and in line with data protection laws.

Welcome your feedback and suggestions, and take them seriously as part of improving the volunteer experience.

Supply any specialist clothing or equipment needed for you to perform your role effectively, and comfortably.

Your Responsibilities to Us

Protect all information you come across during your volunteering by keeping it confidential, using it only for your volunteer role, and following Pilgrims Hospices’ data protection policies and legal requirements.

Uphold Pilgrims Hospices’ CODE values (Compassion, Openness, Dedication, Empowerment), which encompasses treating patients, their families, the public, staff, and fellow volunteers with kindness and respect.

Carry out the tasks you’ve agreed to, following Pilgrims Hospices’ guidelines, policies and procedures, and always to the best of your ability. (Please ask your HSM if you wish to see the Volunteer Policy folder, which is available at all sites).

Attend any essential training sessions (including mandatory or statutory training) relevant to your volunteer role outlined by your Line Manager.

Let your relevant Line Manager know as soon as possible if you’re unwell, on holiday, or otherwise unable to attend your shift.

Update your Line Manager with any changes to your personal details (such as contact information, health status, or criminal convictions).

Refrain from making public statements or speaking to the media on behalf of Pilgrims Hospices without approval from our Communications Team.

What we Offer you

A rewarding opportunity to share your specialist knowledge and passion, while helping turn unique donations into vital funds for hospice care.

Volunteer in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment.

Opportunity to learn new skills, including online listing, photography, and IT skills.

The chance to meet new people, build interpersonal skills, and grow in confidence.

Valuable experience to enhance your CV.

Enjoy free tea, coffee, and biscuits!

How to apply for a volunteer role

To apply for this volunteer role, please download and complete an application form for non-clinical volunteering roles and send to [email protected].