Community Shops Case Study Helen Melia Founder member

Community Shops: Case Study Helen Melia Founder member, Strood Green Shop Association

Brief history • Deteriorating privately owned village shop • Village offers to buy in 2005. Declined, shop CLOSED • In 2008, new owners offered a peppercorn lease to the community • £ 80, 000 needed for complete refurb, fittings and new stock

Fundraising begins

And continues. .

Collating 1500 share packs

Community engagement • • • Formed an Industrial & Provident Society Sold £ 10 shares (over 400 shareholders) Fundraising events Applied for grants Took out a loan Opened as a community-run shop in March 2009

Transformed. . From open days. . To Opening Day!

A shop to be proud of

Our first Christmas

What it offers the community • • • Employs local people Employs & trains teenagers Rota of volunteers Offers postal services Sells local produce Internet cafe Free wi-fi Free library Social hub

The need for the shop • A lifeline in bad weather • Meeting place & rallying point • Reduction in food miles • Reduction of car journeys • Supports the local economy • Community spirit

What does it stock? • • Everything! Local produce Groceries Sweeties Alcohol Fresh veg Bakery

How does it work? • Society is run by Management Committee (all volunteers) elected by Members • Paid staff report to Committee • Volunteers support staff

Support from outside • County councillor very supportive – helped obtain grants • Parish council also supportive regular funding • Rural community council facilitated a grant • The Plunkett Foundation for finance, advice & training