Become a volunteer
Help keep Woodgate's shop running
Join the local volunteer team for shop shifts, practical support, events, or the behind-the-scenes jobs that keep the shop moving.
Why volunteer
The shop works because local people make time for it
Woodgate Community Shop is run for the community by the community. The shop has a manager and a small team, but volunteers are what make the day-to-day model work.
By giving a little time, volunteers help keep running costs down so more of the shop's income can be invested back into the community.
We are looking for more volunteers now, whether you can help regularly, occasionally, or with a particular skill.
Shifts that fit
Most shop shifts are up to three hours, with regular and flexible options.
Full training
You will be shown what to do, and there is support while you are on shift.
Open from 14
Volunteer from age 14. Volunteers aged 14 to 16 need to work with an agreed adult.
Benefits
Good for the shop, and good for you too
Volunteering can be social, practical, confidence-building, and genuinely useful. You do not need retail experience before you start.
Meet people
Spend time with neighbours and become part of the friendly rhythm of the shop.
Support Woodgate
Help keep everyday essentials, local produce, and a warm welcome close to home.
Gain experience
Build retail and customer service experience that can support work, study, or a CV.
Learn skills
Try something new at a sensible pace, with training and a no-blame approach.
Ways to help
There is more than one way to volunteer
Shop shifts are the core of volunteering, but the wider shop also needs practical, creative, and organisational help.
Shop shifts
Serve customers, use the till, restock shelves, tidy displays, and help with daily shop tasks.
Behind the scenes
Support ordering, cleaning, maintenance, bookkeeping, or practical jobs behind the scenes.
Community projects
Help with marketing, fundraising, local events, and the community activity around the shop.
How to apply
Ready to chat about volunteering?
However you would like to start, we would be very happy to hear from you. The online form is the quickest way to tell us a little about you, when you are free, and what you would enjoy helping with.
Paper forms are available in the shop too. If you would rather talk it through first, pop in and ask the staff, or send the committee a message.
Volunteer FAQ
Questions people often ask
If you cannot find the answer you need, contact the committee or ask in the shop and the volunteer team will come back to you.
How old do I have to be to volunteer?
You can volunteer from the age of 14. If you are aged 14 to 16, you will need to work with a parent, guardian, or another agreed adult.
Do you take school work experience or Duke of Edinburgh volunteers?
Yes. We are happy to hear from students and Duke of Edinburgh volunteers, and the team can talk through what is possible.
Can volunteering help me gain skills for my CV?
Yes. Volunteering can be a useful way to build confidence, customer service experience, retail skills, and evidence for your CV.
What if I cannot commit to a regular shift?
That is fine. Regular help is useful, but we also appreciate people who can only help occasionally or decide close to the day.
What if I am nervous about using the till?
Full training is given, and support is there while you are on shift. The till is not as daunting as it looks, and there are also roles that do not use it.
I have a specific skill. Would it be useful?
Very possibly. Skills such as marketing, maintenance, fundraising, bookkeeping, finance, and event support can all help the shop.