Outline of the role

About Us

The Wave Project is an innovative, expanding and award-winning charity that uses surf therapy and the healing powers of the ocean to help children overcome trauma and mental health challenges. The Wave Project transforms young lives - in 2025 we supported more than 2,600 surfers through our Surf Therapy, Surf Club and Adaptive surfing programmes.

The charity, with headquarters in Newquay (Cornwall), was founded in 2010 and has expanded to become the UK’s leading ‘surf therapy’ charity. We now employ nearly 35 staff at 16 sites around the UK, and have nearly 1,400 amazing volunteers.

Contributing to our impact doesn’t just happen on the beach and in the sea. This role is a great opportunity to use your skills, experience and passion to help transform young lives. We are a small but highly driven and creative team who are making a genuine difference in the lives of children and young people.

The Wave Project is a values-led organisation, and we live and breathe our values everyday:

Care, Safe, Brave, Integrity, Inclusive, Impactful and Thrive.

About the role

We are looking for a dedicated seasonal Retail Assistant to join our team for 2 days out of 7 per week during peak season (likely May - September 2026). The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting customers, overseeing daily retail operations, and ensuring the recruitment, retention and coordination of volunteers. This role also includes key holder responsibilities, requiring the ability to open and close the store independently and ecommerce order processing.

Key Responsibilites

Provide excellent customer service, ensuring a positive experience within store.

● Process transactions accurately using the epos system and handle cash/card payments.

Assist with stock management, including replenishment and visual merchandising.

Act as a key holder, responsible for opening and closing the store securely.

• Recruiting volunteers

Promotion of the charity and sign posting general enquiries

Supervise and support volunteers, providing guidance and training where necessary.

Maintain store cleanliness and organisation to create an inviting atmosphere.

Adhere to all health and safety regulations and company policies.

Support any promotional activities or seasonal sales initiatives.

Process and handling of donated goods

Skills & Experience

Previous retail or customer service experience essential.

Experience in a supervisory role or volunteer management is an advantage.

Reliable and trustworthy, with the ability to manage store security.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

● Organised, with attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

Flexible and willing to adapt to the needs of the business.

Benefits

Competitive pay in line with the UK Living Wage.

Supportive and friendly work environment.

● Valuable experience in charity retail operations and volunteer management.

● Opportunity to contribute to a meaningful community-focused organisation.

NK YOU - TH - A FOR - ES

The Wave Project
6 Fore Street
Newquay
TR7 1LN
Telephone: 01637 820830
Email: info@waveproject.co.uk
Website: waveproject.co.uk

Connect with a cause that needs you!

Retail Assistant