Retail Assistant

About the position

Our client is a leading provider of support services for individuals with learning disabilities, committed to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. They are seeking a creative and organised Retail Assistant to lead the operation of their on-site and online retail gift and flower shop in Warrington. This is a brilliant opportunity to combine retail skills with meaningful, person-centred support.

About the Role:

As a Retail Assistant, you will be at the heart of a thriving retail environment, supporting learners to develop practical skills, confidence, and independence through day-to-day shop activities. From merchandising and pricing to customer service and online sales, this role provides a broad and engaging platform for learners to build life and employability skills in a supportive setting.

Reporting to the Director of Operations, you'll also take responsibility for retail operations, volunteer oversight, and the coordination of seasonal campaigns, while ensuring that all activities reflect the organisations values of respect, inclusion, and personal growth.

As the Retail Assistant, your key responsibilities will include:

• Lead the daily operations of the on-site and online gift/flower shop in line with each learners Individual Learning Plan (ILP).
• Support learners in developing practical skills such as stock handling, point-of-sale operation, customer interaction, and online selling.
• Create a safe and inclusive learning environment that promotes dignity, confidence, and independence.
• Manage stock control processes, barcoding, pricing, and inventory tracking.
• Oversee purchasing and budget monitoring to ensure cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Use a computerised till system and coach learners to develop retail and cash-handling competencies.
• Produce engaging social media and ecommerce content, promoting learner involvement and boosting shop visibility.
• Plan and deliver seasonal campaigns, special promotions, and product launches in collaboration with learners.
• Carry out local market research to ensure the shop remains attractive and competitive within the community.
• Embed safeguarding and health & safety across all activities, with dynamic risk assessments and proactive support.
• Maintain accurate written and digital records of learner progress and shop activity.
• Manage and review the performance of support staff and volunteers, ensuring consistent, high-quality delivery.
• Promote a culture of kindness, respect, and accountability, modelling positive behaviour at all times.
• Respond professionally and empathetically to behaviour challenges and complex support needs.
• Encourage learners to explore goals such as volunteering, further education, or employment through enterprise engagement.

The Retail Assistant will have the following skills and attributes:

• Proven experience in managing a retail store and promoting products via social media or online marketplaces such as Etsy.
• Experience supporting individuals with learning disabilities or complex care needs.
• Experience supervising staff or volunteers in a care or enterprise setting is desirable.
• NVQ Level 2 in Health and Social Care (or working towards).
• Demonstrated knowledge of safeguarding, the Mental Capacity Act, and inclusive support principles.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a calm, supportive approach to behaviour support.
• Strong retail acumen, with experience in running or managing a shop (physical or online).
• Confident using IT systems for documentation, ecommerce, and social media marketing.
• Creative and proactive in planning campaigns and boosting customer engagement.
• Comfortable and respectful in delivering personal care when required.

You will be working 25 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Appointment will be subject to DBS clearance, right to work checks and satisfactory references.

Benefits of Joining:

This is a unique opportunity to lead a vibrant, learner-focused retail environment where every sale contributes to someone's confidence, skill development, and sense of purpose. You'll be part of a team that values creativity, community connection, and inclusion.

To Apply:

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you're passionate about combining retail and learner support.

If you're a compassionate, organised, and retail-savvy individual ready to make a meaningful difference wed love to hear from you!

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. All applications are considered on merit, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

£21,000 - £23,000 per year

Place of work