Advertised from 8 September 2025

Role

Job Description

The Maintenance Gardener will play a key role in supporting the upkeep and development of a dedicated therapeutic green space used by UK Armed Forces veterans and emergency responders. This role requires a balance of horticultural skills, sensitivity to the unique needs of the community, and close collaboration with the therapy team. The gardener will work independently to maintain and enhance the space but will work under the direction of therapists to ensure that gardening tasks align with therapeutic and wellbeing goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain all areas of the therapeutic garden, ensuring it remains safe, tidy, welcoming, and conducive to relaxation and recovery.
• Undertake routine horticultural tasks, including planting, pruning, weeding, lawn care, watering, and soil management.
• Ensure pathways, seating areas, and communal spaces are safe, accessible, and well presented.
• Support the development and upkeep of specialist planting areas (e.g., sensory gardens, wildlife-friendly zones) to enhance therapeutic value.
• Work under the direction of therapists to align gardening tasks with therapeutic activities, events, and interventions.
• Carry out light repairs, upkeep of tools and equipment, and report any maintenance concerns.
• Monitor seasonal requirements, advising therapists on planting schedules and improvements.
• Be mindful of and sensitive to the presence of veterans and emergency responders using the space, ensuring that gardening activity supports the calm and restorative atmosphere.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Proven experience in garden or grounds maintenance.
• Knowledge of horticultural practices, including planting, pruning, and pest management.
• Ability to work independently and manage tasks with initiative.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate closely with therapists.
• Awareness of health and safety in a garden environment.
• Sensitivity to the needs of individuals in recovery, particularly veterans and emergency responders.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of designing or maintaining sensory gardens or accessible green spaces.
• Basic DIY/maintenance skills.
• First aid training (can be provided)

Key Attributes

• Respectful, compassionate, and patient approach.
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to respond to the changing needs of the space and its users.
• Commitment to supporting wellbeing through the natural environment.
• Pride in maintaining high standards in presentation and care of the garden.

This role offers the opportunity to use your gardening expertise to make a real difference to people’s lives, creating and maintaining a sanctuary where recovery and wellbeing can flourish.

Application notes

Closing Date: Friday 26th September 2025

Send CV to: enquiries@dundeetherapygarden.org

Tel: 01382 202660 / 07483102448