Argyll Community Shop – A Hub of Hope and Support in Lochgilphead
The Community Shop received £20,000 in funding from the Nadara A’Chruach Wind Farm Community Fund to expand its premises and continue the positive impact it provides locally.
The Project
The Community Shop in Lochgilphead is a vital resource for the local area, offering more than just affordable goods. It is a space rooted in community connection and support. Through partnerships with organisations such as Argyll & Bute Council and Argyll & Bute Citizens Advice Bureau, the shop strengthens its commitment to helping those in need. At its core, the shop aims to provide accessible and affordable items by recycling donated goods back into the community. The team constantly seeks new ways to expand stock based on what will best serve the local population.
In addition to retail, the shop also offers a welcoming sitting area where visitors can enjoy a cup of tea, read, or connect with others. This space also hosts craft classes and, on designated days, transforms into a Camerados Public Living Room —a place designed purely for community interaction and support.
Funding
Due to its popularity as both a shop and a social hub, demand quickly outgrew the original space. In response, The Community Shop received £20,000 in funding from the Nadara A’Chruach Wind Farm Community Fund to expand its premises. This allowed for a larger, more accessible retail area, making more room for essential items such as white goods and furniture and helping individuals and families in real need.
Impact
The expansion was an instant success. Trade increased by 50%, and the shop is now exploring additional storage options to meet growing demand. As footfall increased, so did community engagement. The shop was able to welcome more volunteers and offer new opportunities for local people to get involved, reinforcing its place as a true community cornerstone.
Volunteer Spotlight: Jane’s Story
One inspiring example of the shop’s impact is Jane, a regular volunteer. After years of struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, Jane began a transformative journey when she joined the Community Shop. Her story highlights the deep personal and social value of initiatives like this.
“Volunteering has given me a sense of purpose and structure at a time when life felt chaotic. I really feel part of the community now…”
Jane's road to recovery was affected by the lack of local support in her previous area, where she had to travel over two hours for meetings. Although she received residential rehabilitation care, the challenges remained when she returned home. Seeking a fresh start, Jane relocated to Lochgilphead and connected with a local recovery organisation called With You. With support from the organisation - including temporary housing, regular meetings, and a dedicated support worker - Jane began rebuilding her life.
However, she struggled to find meaningful connection and purpose in her new environment.
“Sitting at home with my thoughts wasn’t healthy. Then one day, I saw a sign in The Community Shop window: ‘Volunteers Wanted.’ I spoke with my support worker, and they encouraged me to apply.”
Jane began volunteering three days a week. She appreciated the flexibility, which allowed her to balance recovery with routine and structure.
“It gave me something to get up for. I had to be somewhere at a set time, I met new people, and slowly, my confidence began to grow.”
Gradually, her confidence extended beyond the shop. Encouraged by her progress, her support worker recommended additional community activities. Jane now lives independently and continues to attend support groups such as AA, CA, and Together in Recovery. While she no longer needs regular support from With You, the organisation remains a safety net and a stepping stone toward future goals.
“They’ve offered to help me explore training through the Scottish Drugs Forum or other courses to help me move into employment. I'm excited for what comes next.”
Today, Jane feels at home in Lochgilphead. She has built strong connections through The Community Shop and feels embraced by the local community.
“People now say ‘Good Morning’ to me when I walk down the street—it’s really nice. I feel settled here, and I can see myself staying for the foreseeable future.”
Conclusion
The Community Shop is more than just a place to shop - it's a beacon of inclusion, resilience, and community spirit. Stories like Jane’s show how grassroots initiatives, when well-supported, can change lives. With continued support and involvement, the shop is poised to remain a cornerstone of hope for years to come.
Read more about the Nadara A’Chruach Wind Farm Community Fund.