Volunteer Gardener

The Hospice prides itself on having beautifully kept gardens for the enjoyment of patients, their families, visitors and staff. The upkeep of the gardens is paramount to the image of St Leonard’s, and reflects the care and attention that the Hospice gives to all who visit.

As a member of the Hospice team of volunteer gardeners you will be helping maintain and sometimes develop the gardens of the Hospice, under the guidance from the Facilities team.

**When am I needed?**
- Join a group session once or twice a week, usually held on Monday and Thursday mornings, or come at a time, day and frequency to suit you.

**What will I be doing?**
- This role will be adapted to your skill level
- Working individually or with the other members of the volunteer gardening team and facilities staff, to maintain and develop areas of the hospice grounds for the enjoyment of everyone who comes to the Hospice.
- Planting, weeding, watering and pruning plants in beds and containers
- Weeding of paved areas
- Planning planting schemes and any purchases needed for the garden
- Maintaining high standards of safety so you will need to understand health and safety and manual handling policies.
- Assisting at the Annual Plant Fair held at the Hospice in spring

**What skills and qualities will I need?**
- Be healthy, energetic and reasonably strong
- Enjoy being part of a friendly, enthusiastic and hardworking team
- Enjoy making positive changes to the environment
- Have a knowledge of, and keen interest in, plants and gardening
- Be willing to do repetitive or less challenging tasks when needed
- Ability to maintain high levels of confidentiality
- Have a good understanding of personal and professional boundaries

**How will I benefit from being a Gardener?**
- Be a part of a friendly and inclusive team
- Be valued and respected
- Training and support
- The opportunity to improve your gardening skills and boost your CV
- Being outside in the fresh air with Mother Nature

**Support and Supervision**

The Gardening Volunteer Team are directed by the Facilities Manager and supported by the Facilities Team. The Volunteer Services Department staff will help with your induction and be your point of contact for general enquiries about volunteering.

Volunteers will be required to complete online training and attend in person meetings where appropriate.

For all hospice-based volunteering enquiries please contact the Volunteer Services Office on