Location
Sidcup, London

Hours
Volunteer role - flexible hours to be agreed

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
We have a medium size courtyard at Queen Marys Hospital which is being developed into a therapeutic space for service users with long term conditions. This garden will provide a green, calming environment to support peer support and rehabilitation. We are seeking a volunteer gardener to assist with the general upkeep and development of the Therapy Garden. Duties include independent gardening tasks as well as working alongside service users to support activities such as seed sowing and planting. The aim is to create a welcoming, therapeutic space that helps service users living with long term pain to live happier and healthier lives by accessing a green space.

A volunteer would provide invaluable support by helping to maintain planted areas and internal courtyards through regular planting, weeding, and mulching; creating wildlife habitats such as insect hotels and bird boxes; planting seeds and bulbs and providing aftercare; monitoring butterflies, pollinators, plants and other wildlife; encouraging and inspiring others to use the garden space; and reporting any concerns or issues to the service manager.

Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust offers a wide range of healthcare services across community and secure settings, working closely with NHS partners, local councils and the voluntary sector. We are committed to improving lives through excellent care and support, guided by our values: We’re Kind, We Listen, We Care.

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace that welcomes and supports individuals of all abilities. Applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria are guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. We encourage openness about needs to ensure a comfortable and accessible interview experience. Adjustments can be arranged upon request.

Experience
No formal experience required. Enthusiasm for gardening and working with people is essential.

About you
Enthusiastic and motivated to support a therapeutic garden environment. Able to work independently and collaboratively with service users. A positive attitude towards supporting people with long term conditions and contributing to their wellbeing through gardening activities.

Qualifications
No specific qualifications are required for this volunteer role. A willingness to learn and contribute is most important.