‘Sow and Grow’ Gardening Volunteer opportunity – Marlets in Hove

Want to make a difference?

‘Sow and Grow’ is a weekly gardening group for patients and carers which promotes a feeling of purpose and a sense of achievement, through tending, cultivating and harvesting plants. Our purpose built raised bedding area allows patients to connect with nature in a relaxing and accessible environment helping to improve general health and well-being with gentle exercise, fresh air and creativity. The group is also used as a safe space where patients can connect and develop friendships or chat about any concerns they may have with a trained nurse.

Where: Martlets Hospice, Wayfield Avenue, Hove, BN3 7LW

When: Every Thursday 10.30am-1.30pm

Usual minimum commitment: Three hours per week OR fortnight for a 6 month period from 12^th April to 27^th Sept 2018. Our preference is a weekly commitment but if you have the skills we are looking for, we would be interested in you volunteering on a fortnightly basis

 What you’ll be doing:

• Greeting Day Service users and assisting with mobility
• Helping to set up gardening equipment
• Working with the group lead to coordinate gardening activities
• Chatting to attendees and updating the group lead as appropriate
• Serving refreshments during the break
• Helping to clear up at the end of the session
• Watering the flower beds

What’s in it for you:

• Opportunity to be part of a friendly group
• Making a positive difference to patients and carers by helping them to feel at home and enjoy the sessions
• Introduction to basic horticultural skills – or if you are a gardener, a chance to share your knowledge with the group (gardening knowledge is not essential to this role)
• Support and supervision in your role
• Chance to enjoy the fresh air and the Martlets garden

  Your skills and abilities:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Empathetic nature and an understanding of palliative care (although some training can be given)
• Friendly and approachable
• Happy to get involved in gardening tasks (some lifting and moving will be required)
• Good sense of humour

 Expectations:

• To attend fortnightly sessions ideally for the duration of the project (6 months)
• Wear appropriate outdoor clothing
• To maintain confidentiality in accordance with Martlets guidelines
• To attend a Martlets Welcome Day
• To attend a half day training session on palliative care

Contact: People Services Team
Email: peopleservices@martlets.org.uk
Tel: 01273 718788