Horticultural Practitioner

The Practitioner will provide expert, non-clinical guidance to ensure we get the most out of these new gardens for patients, visitors and staff. While not a clinical therapist, the Practitioner is responsible for creating a supportive, empathetic environment for patients with complex needs. The Practitioner will use their horticultural skills and knowledge to ensure the gardens become well established and thrive.

Key Responsibilities:

• Patient Engagement (1/3 of time): Delivering horticultural activities to individuals and small groups, supported by clinical ward staff.

• Volunteer Coordination (1/3 of time): Supervising and coordinating 4–5 gardening volunteers (recruited by the NHS Lothian Voluntary Services Manager) to maintain the aesthetic and health of the gardens.

• Garden maintenance (1/3 of time): Deliver comprehensive maintenance for the Ward 1 and Ward 2 gardens to ensure their establishment and success.