Looking for Support Volunteers to work alongside Horticultural Therapists

Gardening / Outdoor work volunteers needed for Ridgeline Trust in RG6

Support volunteers to work alongside Horticultural Therapists, helping people with physical disabilities, mental health issues and learning difficulties. The role involves:

  • Supporting clients to carry out gardening activities, under the supervision of the Horticultural Therapists
  • Enable and encourage clients
  • Develop and amintain a relationship of trust with clients, Ridgeline staff and other volunteers
  • Listen to clients, observe and acknowledge their progress, and contribute to Horticultural Therapists’ evaluation
  • Report any concerns to Ridgeline staff, including potential safeguarding issues
  • Join in group social interaction during breaks
  • Assist in preparing before sessions and tidying/cleaning tools after sessions
  • Be prepared to be flexible, depending on client numbers at a session
  • Optionally, assist at public events, e.g. plant sales, harvest fete

The role suits someone who:

  • Has excellent communication skills
  • Has empathy with people with a range of disabilities and mental health issues
  • Has an interest in gardening and working outdoors
  • Can maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
  • Can commit to approximately 3 hours per week for a minimum of 3 months
Organisation
Contact person firstname
Siân
Lastname
Hooley
Contact person's position
Development Manager
Their phone number?
07525 636 018
Contact instructions?
Please email, and we aim to respond within 5 working days
Location address line 1
25 Whiteknights Road
Town
Reading
County
Berkshire
Postcode
RG6 7BY

Map
Wheelchair accessible?
Yes
Car parking for the volunteer?
Yes
Secure bicycle parking?
Not specified
Near public transport?
Yes
How much time?
A few hours a week
What times and days of the week?
Tue AMTue PMWed PM
Availability required
Any of these times
Additional timing details
We occasionally need volunteers to cover other sessions
Task type?
Gardening / Outdoor work
Will suit someone like this:
SociablePatientSupportiveEnjoys working outside
Post suitable for supported volunteering?
Not specified
Is training given?
Yes
Training description
Horticultural Therapists provide on the job training
Is support given?
Yes
Description of support
Horticultural Therapists
Are expenses paid?
Yes
Description of expenses
Travel expenses
Will I need my own transportation?
No
Will the volunteer be CRB or DBS checked?
Yes
Are references required?
Yes
Will there be an interview?
Yes
Are they properly insured?
Yes
Minimum age
18
Do they need a specific gender?
No
How many volunteers needed?
5
Opportunity added on
11 May 2021