Space to Grow Gardening Group - Walton

Mary Frances Trust is a Surrey-based charity supporting people with mental health and emotional wellbeing. We offer a variety of services to adults (16+) including wellbeing courses and advice, a range of activities and interest groups, peer support, self-help groups, individual support and volunteering opportunities.

We engage volunteers from a variety of backgrounds to help us by assisting the staff team to deliver our work to clients that seek our support, across Mole Valley, Epsom & Ewell, Banstead and Elmbridge. 

How you can help

Working closely with our member of staff / facilitator, this role will complement and support the service delivery of our weekly Space to Grow project which takes place on an allotment owned by the Walton charities in Elmbridge. This will be a rewarding role for someone seeking a regular opportunity either once a week or fortnightly, supporting group members in planting, harvesting and other growing activities on this very special site.

This group provides a safe non-judgemental environment for people to engage with nature through growing things and have an opportunity to mix and talk with others at the same time. The volunteering role supports the facilitator in all activities, welcoming attendees, checking in with each of them to see that they are OK and supporting them throughout their time at the group.

This role isn’t particularly demanding, however good people skills, common sense and the ability to get alongside others in a relaxed setting is something we look for. The volunteer role also includes a small amount of time either side of the group meeting to set up and pack away. Due to the nature of our work, this role would suit someone wanting a more medium to long term involvement. Some clients may have communication and confidence difficulties due to a number of health-related issues.

What we ask of you

Support the member of Staff / facilitator to run the weekly group and activity

· Help set up and pack away refreshments and materials

· Sign in, welcome and help attendees feel relaxed and included

· Welcome newcomers, involving them in activities and conversation

· Support and assist the staff / facilitator with any difficulty that may arise

· Treat all client information as confidential

· Respect the need for personal & professional boundaries with clients

· Report any safeguarding concerns to staff in a timely manner to ensure clients are able to access the support they need (safeguarding training will be provided)

What skills do I need?

Qualities that make a successful Gardening Support Volunteer

Good interpersonal skills

· Reliable, friendly, flexible

· Confident, positive, patient, empathetic, compassionate

· Ability to ask for help (if you don’t understand)

· Ability to work as part of a small team

· Passionate about supporting other people