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

2. 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

3. Fundraising begins

4. And continues....

5. Collating 1500 share packs

6. 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

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

8. A shop to be proud of

9. Our first Christmas

10. 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

11. 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

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

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

14. 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