THE gardens of St Clare Hospice are a vital part of the care that the charity provides to patients and their families – offering a haven of peace and tranquillity to relax and enjoy nature in.

A committed team of volunteer gardeners help to keep the green space at the Hastingwood-based charity well cared for; but the Hospice are now appealing for even more green-fingered and kind-hearted people to join their existing team.

Paul Miller, Facilities Manager at St Clare Hospice, said: “The gardens at St Clare are one of the highlights of the Hospice for patients and their families. We are always receiving positive comments about the tranquil atmosphere and there are lots of secluded spots to enjoy the plants and flowers – giving families a chance for peace at one of life’s hardest moments. We often pick flowers from the gardens to put into patients’ bedrooms which brings a lot of enjoyment to them and their loved ones.”

“The beauty of the gardens is all thanks to the committed team of volunteer gardeners who come every week – rain or shine – to tend to the grounds. But now that we have a new building with landscaped gardens surrounding it, as well as a huge array of flower beds in our newly renovated car parking area, we need even more green-fingered help. Many hands really do make light work – so the more people who can join us, the better!”

Volunteering in the gardens at St Clare is an enjoyable experience. Bob Pook, who has been a volunteer gardener for five years, said: “I took up a position as volunteer gardener and handy man at St Clare after I retired. I wanted to do something to keep me busy and working outside appealed to me. I have made some great friends amongst the other gardeners and we often go out to the pub to socialise. Volunteering has had such a positive impact on my life – as well as making a meaningful difference to the lives of those who come to St Clare.”

St Clare is currently seeking enthusiastic, hardworking and visionary gardeners to help grow the green space at the Hospice. Duties will involve: tidying and weeding flowerbeds, cutting grass, pruning and composting. You will be working under the guidance of the Facilities Manager and will be part of a supportive team with training provided where necessary.

Hours are flexible, dependent on your availability, but must be between Monday and Friday.

For more information about how to become a Volunteer Gardener: http://stclarehospice.org.uk/volunteervacancies/volunteer-gardener/

You can also contact the Voluntary Services Manager, Chris Crump, directly at [email protected] or call 01279 773722.