Befriender/Peer supporter at Community Allotment - EcoLocal

We are looking for volunteers to help support participants at the community allotment, working alongside our staff.

About the Organisation

EcoLocal is an independent charity which acts as a base for a wide range of community and environmental projects in our local area. We have a large community allotment where people can learn food growing and gardening skills hands-on. 

What you will be doing

Our Carshalton Community Allotment, situated in Westmead Allotment Site in Carshalton, is a thriving project engaging people in food growing, healthy eating and community activity. We provide a range of activities including food growing, organic gardening, wildlife and biodiversity gardening, herb/fruit growing. We have an indoor space, outdoor rain shelter and two small polytunnels. There are raised beds on site for those less able to bend down.

We are looking for volunteers to help support participants who may need a little extra support to volunteer, working alongside our staff, at our twice weekly supported sessions.

Key tasks:

  • To work alongside participants so they feel able to participate and learn. This involves chatting to people while they work to help them to feel they are part of a friendly environment, gardening with people to help them achieve simple gardening tasks, encouraging people to take free fresh fruit and veg home, making sure participants take a break and have a drink or snack 
  • To support staff in keeping the community allotment running smoothly. For example, helping to put all the tools away at the end of the sessions.
  • If you wanted, you could also assist with food growing, gardening or creative projects on the allotment depending on your interest and experience

What's in it for you?

Spending time outdoors. Fresh veg to take home. Enjoying a peaceful environment. Being part of a team and seeing results. And the satisfaction of helping others to be able to volunteer.

What skills will you need?

  • Enjoy supporting others

  • Interest in community projects

  • Comfortable working outdoors

  • Good at communicating with people of all abilities and backgrounds

  • Friendly and approachable

  • Patient and willing to take time to communicate, especially with those with learning difficulties or mild mental health issues

  • No gardening or food growing expertise required – training provided by staff

  • No formal qualifications needed

What's the time commitment and where? 

Time Commitment: our supported gardening sessions run on Monday and/or Friday mornings between 10.30am and 12.30pm 

 

Role Address

Carshalton Community Allotment, Westmead Allotment Site, Colston Avenue, Carshalton SM5. Short walk from Carshalton Station S3 bus stops right outside (except Sundays). Close to bus routes 157 and 127

How can I apply?

Please complete the form below and we will put you in contact with the organisation.   It’s helpful if you can tell us a little about yourself and why you’re interested in this role in the message box below. 

By completing this form you agree for us to pass on your contact details to the organisation.

 

 

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