Village Pantry Host

Vital Village is a community hub based in Thames Ditton, bringing people together through practical support, activities and shared spaces.

We work with families, individuals and local partners to create a welcoming place where people can connect, feel supported and access everyday essentials with dignity.

From food and reuse initiatives to well-being activities and community events, Vital Village exists to strengthen the local community and respond to real needs as they emerge.

The Village Pantry will be a welcoming, community-led space offering surplus food, refills and local products with dignity and care.

The Pantry is open to everyone, and volunteers play a vital role in making it a supportive, fair and respectful place.

What this role involves:

• Welcoming people into The Village Pantry and helping create a friendly, inclusive atmosphere

• Explaining how the Pantry works and answering questions clearly and kindly

• Supporting people to choose items within agreed guidance so the offer remains fair for all

• Assisting with refill stations for dry goods and liquids

• Using the point of sale (POS) system to put refills and local products through the till (full training provided)

• Supporting people who may feel unsure or anxious when accessing the Pantry

• Keeping the space clean, calm and welcoming during sessions

All volunteers will receive:

• A full Pantry induction

• Food safety training

• Training on the point of sale (POS) system

• Guidance on dignity-led support, inclusion and boundaries

• Safeguarding awareness (with enhanced training for Shift Leads)

• Ongoing support from the Vital Village team

Our aim is for The Village Pantry to feel welcoming, respectful and community-led — and for volunteering to feel supported, valued and well-organised.

What skills do I need?

This role is ideal for you if you

• Enjoy interacting with people and putting others at ease

• Are patient, calm and non-judgemental

• Are happy following guidance and using simple systems once trained

Time commitment • Typically 2–3 hour shifts during opening hours