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Garden Volunteer

  • VO98104

Description

Growing Matters was established as a charity in 2017 and its aim is to develop and maintain the old 4 acre walled kitchen garden on the Gilmerton House estate. The garden had fallen into disrepair, and it is now being gradually developed as a community resource. We are aiming to recruit several new volunteers to work in the garden alongside existing volunteer gardeners. There is a range of tasks and activities on offer depending on your interests and experience. These include garden maintenance such as weeding, sowing, planting, DIY, pruning and digging. There is also the opportunity to take part in courses we run in our new craft building: bee keeping from a local beekeeper who keeps hives in the garden, and willow weaving using material we grow in the garden. We also have a polytunnel where volunteers can grow flowers and vegetables all the year round.

Organisation aims and objectives

Our charity Growing Matters operates from a four acre walled garden on the Gilmerton Estate. We aim to heal through horticulture, supporting and maintaining good mental and physical well being. Our Seeds of Change programme uses therapeutic horticulture to alleviate stress, depression and anxiety, combat isolation and promote improved quality of life for our local community. Maintained entirely by volunteers our garden looks to provide a range of beneficial activities and training opportunities for those looking to return to employment or for those wanting to enjoy being active outdoors - with others - in beautiful surroundings.

Availability

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Our volunteer sessions run for 3 hours, but you are welcome to attend for less than this, if desired.

Restrictions

Experience required: An interest in gardening is desirable, although guidance can be provided by existing volunteers.
Travel details: By Car
Minimum age: 18

Support

Taster available: Yes
Taster details: Come along to the garden during one of the volunteer sessions, see what we have on offer, meet other volunteers, and join in anything you find interesting.
Support: Named Contact For Volunteer

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