FAQs

No. We are a new repair café so may try different methods of managing the event but currently we do not operate a booking system. You will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis. We are likely to be busiest at opening time so if you are able, it may be best to delay your arrival until later in the afternoon. We hope that you are happy to wait for a while as it will give you the opportunity to enjoy a drink and a snack. It's also a chance to sit and chat and make new friends.

We allocate 30 minutes to each repair, which may not be long enough for some repairs.  We do not want to rush a repair and risk problems with complex or delicate items.  We may not have to hand the special tool needed for the repair but given more time the repair may be possible.

In these situations, the repairer and the customer may come to a private arrangement, where the repairer may offer to complete the repair at home and the customer gives permission for this. Contact details should be exchanged and clear arrangements made for the customer to collect the repaired item, either from the repairer's home or at the next Repair Café session.  A form shall be completed to record this and provide the necessary disclaimer stating that the arrangement is outside of Repair Café responsibility.

Generally, if an item is hand-portable and not in a dangerous condition, our repairers will carry out an examination, give their honest opinion and advice and proceed with a repair if they consider it's appropriate and viable.
Please note unfortunately we are not able to repair large white goods, air fryers or microwaves.

No charge is made for any advice or repair, but we rely on our customers' generous donations to keep the service free at the point of delivery for everyone. Donations are used to cover costs such as specialist tools and consumables.

The only time you will be asked to contribute financially is when a repairer needs to buy a special part to complete your repair.

If a repairer advises that the item may be repairable but needs a replacement part, e.g. new brushes for a vacuum cleaner they will specify the details of the part needed. The repairer may offer to obtain the part on your behalf or provide you with details of where you can purchase it yourself.  The part may cost only a few pennies or be more expensive but whatever the cost, the repairer should always be reimbursed by the customer.

Not usually no.  In the first instance, the customer needs to be present in order to describe the item's perceived fault or problem to the repairer who will then examine it and make their own assessment. The possible reasons for the fault will be explained and each step of the repair clarified as the repair is undertaken. This is done to help the customer pick up some new practical knowledge and skills. Sometimes, the customer will be invited, and even needed, to assist with the repair.

We are always looking for new volunteers, not only as repairers and to join the sewing team but also to assist with reception and registration and to act as front-of-house, making new customers feel welcome and explaining the procedures to them. Some customers appreciate extra assistance with carrying their possession from the car or completing the registration form. We can never have too many volunteers as we always need to cover for holidays, sickness and other commitments.

Please speak to someone on the reception desk if you're interested in joining the team or contact us by email at: ravensheadrepaircafe@gmail.com

You will be asked to complete a brief application form with your personal details and an emergency contact form. All information you provide is regarded as strictly confidential. Your name will be added to our mailing list and each month you will be given the opportunity to confirm whether you're available to help or not. At your first session you will be invited to work alongside one of our regular volunteers who will show you the ropes and make you feel at home. 

For information can be found on our volunteer page.