Volunteers

There are over sixty volunteers who help to run the shop and the cafe and they are essential to the success of Galleries; people see their role as not just supporting the community but also as an opportunity to socialise and meet up.

There is a rota system of three or four shifts per day and most volunteers work one shift a week with some opting for once a week or fortnight. The aim is to be as flexible as possible whilst maintaining the right number of people on the premises.

Volunteers do need to be over the age of 15 but there is no upper age limit. Some volunteers are students doing their Duke of Edinburgh Award, some have school-age children or are working full time and help out at the weekends, while others describe themselves as active retired.

What is common with everyone is the camaraderie and enjoyment from being part of a community enterprise that is so friendly and inviting.

Working behind the till in the shop is one way of helping out but there are plenty of other jobs and roles including stocking the shelves, clearing up, maintenance work, gardening, washing up or helping with deliveries.

In the café the role involves making customers feel welcome, taking customer orders, helping to prepare hot drinks, clearing tables, and preparing for the next day as well as being part of a warm and vibrant team.

Shifts available in the café are:

To show appreciation for the effort and commitment that volunteers put into Galleries, vouchers will be given out monthly for freebies!

A free meal and a drink for four or more shifts per month, or a free coffee and a cake for three shifts or less.

More details when you join up as a volunteer!