Volunteer gardener at Hillier Gardens

About the role

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens have a world-renowned botanical collection within 180 acres situated near Romsey and is a registered charity. Originally the private garden of Sir Harold Hillier and his family they were given in trust to Hampshire County Council in 1977. Our Volunteer Scheme has been in place for over 20 years. Within our grounds there are landscaped areas including shrubs and flowers beds that need looking after to ensure they flourish. This role will involve working in the garden to keep them looking well maintained throughout the year.

Typical tasks and duties

• Assist the Horticultural Team staff with routine/general garden maintenance tasks e.g. planting, pruning, mulching, weeding, and watering
• Reporting damaged or dead plants to a senior member of the garden team
• Talking to members of the public

Training

No previous experience needed. Initial online training would need to be completed before starting. A full induction programme and additional training will be given.

For long term volunteers training is available and can include First Aid, practical Horticulture skills and Leadership Skills.

Commitment

Days and times would be agreed before starting and could be from Monday to Thursday. Hours would normally be from 9:30am to midday or 9:30am to 3pm, although this may be seasonal or weather dependant. A minimum commitment of 12 hours per month for a year would be expected.

You will

• have previous experience of working in a public facing environment
• be friendly, enthusiastic, energetic, and fun
• be interested in growing plants and caring for gardens
• enjoy working outdoors
• have a good level of fitness
• by happy to work in a team as well as independently
• deal skilfully and professionally with a variety of visitors under a variety of circumstances
• proactively keep informed about changes in the Gardens.

Although training will be provided, it would be helpful if you have

• a good knowledge of the Gardens
• a good working knowledge of garden plants, wildflowers and/or wildlife
• recent first aid training.

Other information

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is committed to safeguarding children and adults and promoting the welfare of children and young people/adults and expects all employees, workers, and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.

Further information on what a volunteer can expect and also what Sir Harold Hillier Gardens expects from our volunteers is set out in the volunteer handbook.